Shepton Mallet Town Council has announced Amy Fairhurst as the winner of this year's Christmas card competition. Amy's stunning design, which features the iconic Market Cross, impressed the judges and earned her the honour of switching on the town centre and Christmas tree lights this Friday evening.

The council praised the creative talent of all the children who entered, saying it was a tough decision to pick a winner.

Amy will be at the heart of Shepton's festive celebrations, which promise to be a fun-filled evening for all the family. The event will include a bustling night market with craft, gift, food, and drink stalls, as well as late-night shopping at some of the town's High Street favourites.

Children can enjoy free donkey petting and visit Santa's Grotto, while live entertainment will keep the festive spirit alive with performances from Shepton Mallet Big Band, Frome Bandits, and the All Hallows Choir.

Creative workshops will also run throughout the evening, offering something for everyone:

• Wooden decoration workshop: Create festive tree decorations from wood and pine cones with Holly and Hawthorne at Shepton Library.
• Music & Movement: A session for under-fives with Willow from Sing-a-Ling, also at Shepton Library.
• Paper crafts: Make personalised decorations or gifts at Create@8 with Josephine Dawn Monroe.

Food and drink stalls will feature seasonal favourites, including a hog roast, fresh wood-fired pizza, mulled cider, and more.

The event also offers free parking at Great Ostry car park, making it even easier for visitors to enjoy the festivities.

Join the community this Friday for a night of shopping, entertainment, and holiday cheer, and celebrate as Amy lights up Shepton Mallet for the season ahead.