Market stalls and Christmas cheer pervaded East Finchley high street as festive spirit took over.

Throughout the day, attractions from Santa's reindeer to stalls enabling customers to make theirr own decorations.

Santa’s aides were getting up close and personal with everyone who passed by, no doubt preparing for their duties later this month.

Finchley and Golders Green MP Mike Freer who donned a Santa outfit to surprise passers, but confessed he did not get the reaction he was anticipating.

He said: “I was expecting the outfit to be a lot warmer and I was surprised to see how many children were afraid of Santa; most people didn’t recognise me.”

“East Finchley has always got a strong community spirit and you can see that with this festival and it is just great. All shops and organisations have come together to do a fantastic Christmas festival. It’s going really, really well and an absolutely fabulous event.

“It is one of the most vibrant communities and its great to come along and show some support.”

Gareth Ivett, who brought along his children James and Annabel, said: “This is exactly what the area needed, we love seeing the high street getting into the Christmas spirit and as you can see, the place is buzzing.”

Vilmos, five, made himself a festive hat at the decorations stool and described that day as “awesome”.

The event was organised by East Finchley Community Trust and was the second year it had taken place. More than 30 stalls were set out along High Road in East Finchley.

Stalls were on the high street until 5pm with festive music continuing throughout.