Businesses and shoppers will be taking a step back in time for the annual Loddon and Chedgrave Victorian Evening.

The event has become a festive family favourite since it was revived four years ago, and includes the switching on of the town's Christmas lights by Father Christmas at Church Plain.

The event is being held on Friday, December 4, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and is organised by the Chedgrave Victorian Evening Working Group - part of the Chet Valley Festival Committee.

Heather Tew, one of the organisers, said: 'We ask the traders and households to light their own windows up and the parish council arranges the lights in the main car park by the church.

'The idea of the evening is to put Loddon on the shopping map for Christmas and get everyone in the mood for Christmas.'

As in previous years, shopkeepers will be dressed in Victorian costumes and a display of vintage engines will be found in the Staithe car park. The Poringland Singers will be performing in Church Plain when the lights are switched on at 6.30pm and there will be an open evening at Holy Trinity Church with stalls.

A folk duo will be performing at Loddon Garden and DIY, the Funky Feet School of Dance will be performing at The Hollies and there will be a balloon magician, face painting and the chance to visit Father Christmas. There will also be a farmers' market and activities for children in the library, and the fire station will be serving hot food.

The main street running through Loddon will not be closed during the event, so motorists are ask to drive with care.

Loddon and District Business Association is also running a special children's Christmas event at the shops in Chedgrave on the same night, before the lights are switched on.

As well as Santa in his grotto there will be a special visit from the Ice Queen, Ice Princess and Snowman from Just Kids Parties in Beccles, a fancy dress competition and the chance to have your face painted by Norfolk artist Catriona Finlayson.

The shops will be open and there will be entertainment including live music from Langley School and Hobart High School. The event will run from 4pm to 6pm and admission is free.