?CHRISTMAS around the world? was the theme of Bere Alston?s Victorian Evening last weekend, with plenty of festive fun for all the family to enjoy. During Saturday evening the shops stayed open late with staff dressed in appropriatel 19th century garb. The streets were filled with shoppers, who made the most of the extra opening hours and enjoyed a variety of refreshments and entertainments. The evening included a traditional Punch and Judy show, a fire dancer and music from the Salvation Army band. The enticing smell of roasting potatoes and bacon rolls filled the night air and there was a steady stream of visitors to Santa?s Grotto, beautifully decorated and set up in the offices of Mansbridge and Balment. Bere Alston Victorian Evening is organised by the village carnival committee. Committee chairperson Beryl Mills said: ?It was a super evening ? everyone has been saying it?s the best one we?ve ever done, it?s getting better every year. ?The streets were packed ? we always have a twilight bazaar in the hall and they were queuing out of the door to get in. We had music, the fire dancer was absolutely brilliant and the miniature steam train was super.? The prize for the best dressed window went to Bedford House, while the prize for the best Victorian costume was awarded to Emma Kirby.
