GLITTERING trees and a town centre packed with market stalls encouraged people to start their Christmas shopping locally.

Families flocked to market stalls selling gifts, including cakes and chocolate, set up in Epping High Street, and took shelter from the cold in St John’s church, which was filled with Christmas trees decorated by groups and businesses from the town.

Rock star Rod Stewart watched carols being sung by children from Coopersale Hall School, which his son Alistair attends.

Sally Lacy-Kerr, who launched her Coopersale-based business the Velvet Chocolate Company at the market, said: “It’s a great place to launch because Epping is so friendly.

“There was a really good atmosphere and the product was well-received. The Christmas truffles were popular and children liked the chocolate lollipops.”

The former teacher and mother-of-two, who has trained as a chocolatier, added: “It definitely seems like a positive start and it was a great chance to get out there.”

Vic Knope, who manned the Copped Hall Trust charity stall on the market, said: “This year, despite freezing temperatures, people showed a lot of interest.

“It gives us the chance to make new acquaintances.”