Traders in King Street in Sandwich have pulled out all the stops to ensure this year’s street party is the best yet, including free parking on the Quay.

Families around the district are invited to the free Christmas bash from 11am until 5pm today (Saturday.)

There will be entertainment including magic and fire juggling plus music from Rock Choir at 4pm, not forgetting artificial snow, a professional light display and stalls selling mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

New for this year is the Festival of Trees inside St Peter’s Church, which includes an Autism Awareness Tree with decorations made by pupils at Great Oaks School.

Children will also be invited to take home a star from a wishing well inside the church, supporting the National Autistic Society, which is this year’s chosen charity.

Card Gallery owner John Van Der Dol, who has organised the event, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming the children of Sandwich and surrounding towns and districts to our free party.

“Snow is guaranteed, music will be played and the chestnuts will be ready.

“It will of course be a little chilly, so wrap up warm.

“Some great news is that we have managed to negotiate free parking on the Quay only from 10am until 6pm.

“Our thanks goes to Dover District Council.”

The event is sponsored by Discovery Park, The Co-op and Sandwich Tollbridge Fund.

The Rotary Club of Sandwich has said there will no Nativity scene in St Peter’s Church gardens this year due to insurance difficulties although they hope to return with it next year.