A STAGGERING 15,000 people flooded Billericay to take part in the annual Rotary Club of Billericay Mayflower Christmas event.

More than 150 different market stalls cashed in on Christmas selling every kind of gift imaginable, but the highlight was a stunning antique carousel ride which featured in a scene in ITV’s blockbuster period drama Downton Abbey.

Every year the Billericay Christmas Market offers free parking, free Punch and Judy entertainment.

The special charity evening at the farm in Barleylands Road featured stand-up comic and former Southend United player Terry Alderton, a Michael Buble tribute and local bands.

The Towngate Theatre cast of Peter Pan were on hand to add some magical performances and characters too. Auctions and raffles were all on offer over and above the range of hand crafted wares and gifts that usually feature in the Barleylands centre.