<p>Press Release 9 December 2014</p><p>Shoppers turn out in force for Dorking’s fabulous Gala Night </p><p>Thousands of people braved the damp and chilly weather to celebrate Dorking’s annual Gala Night in style on Thursday, 4 December from 6pm to 8.30pm.</p><p>Families, friends, young and old alike flocked to the town to explore the shops and street markets, enjoy the entertainment and to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. </p><p>Most shops were open all evening and some generous retailers provided free food and drink for their customers, served by staff in a remarkable range of festive clothing. Live music provided by local bands ‘Ten in a Room’ and ‘The Usual Suspects’ filled the air in St Martin’s Walk, South Street and the length of Dorking High Street. </p><p>Children crowded around a traditional nativity scene that featured live reindeer, were thrilled by rides at a funfair and marvelled at the antics of street entertainers. Parents and teenagers chatted with characters from this year‘s pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ at Dorking Halls, sampled festive produce at a special Farmers’ Market in South Street, watched Morris Dancers perform their lively routines and enjoyed Christmas carols sung by a choir in St Martin’s Walk. </p><p>This year's theme, ‘A Traditional Christmas' inspired Dorking Chamber of Commerce and Dorking Town Centre Management to provide the host of entertainment and activities under the twinkling Christmas lights, with support from Mole Valley District Council and local people.</p><p>Councillor John Northcott, Executive Member for Planning said, “Many of our residents say Gala Night is when Christmas really gets going in Dorking. With so much home grown entertainment, first class shopping and wholesome family fun, no wonder people attended Gala Night in such large numbers." </p><p>See short video: http://tinyurl.com/ph2kvpe ends</p><p>Media contact for further information: </p><p>Paul Newman, Communications Officer, Tel: 01306-879269. Email: [email protected]</p><p>Mole Valley District Council, Pippbrook, Dorking RH4 1SJ </p>