Malvern residents have been encouraged to shop locally this Christmas by the town crier.

Malvern Hills District Council is working with the Mike Fray to encourage people to support community businesses during the festive season.

The public is being asked to take on the challenge of purchasing all their Christmas shopping in the area.

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The council has said that the district is full of seasonal shopping opportunities and bursting with independent shops across the town centres.

It added that there is lots on offer in Malvern, including handmade arts, crafts, antiques, curios, homewares, furniture, clothes, accessories, haberdashery, garden centres, nurseries, florists, cards, jewellery, books, vinyl, food, drink, and toys.

Shoppers can plan their Christmas spending by visiting the 'Visit the Malverns’ website for a list of shops across the district.

Mr Fray, will be making public announcements at events across the district in Great Malvern, Barnards Green, Malvern Link, Tenbury Wells, and Upton.

Mr Fray will be at the following locations:

- Great Malvern Farmers’ Market on Saturday (November 16) from 12pm to 2pm - Tenbury Mistletoe Festival on Saturday, December 7 from 12pm to 3pm - Upton Christmas Market on Sunday, December 8 from 12pm to 3pm - Tenbury Football Club on Thursday, December 12 from 3pm to 4.30pm - Malvern Town Football Club on Saturday, December 14 from 2.30pm to 4pm

Councillor Julie Wood, portfolio holder for economic development and tourism at the council, said: "We are so excited to see that the town crier will be making proclamations over the festive period.

"He will be making his debut at the Great Malvern Farmers’ Market this weekend, so don’t miss him.

"It is a great opportunity to find that perfect Christmas gift and to explore our wonderful town centre shops."