IT may not have been snowing, but Christmas traditions were much in evidence at a family celebration in Weymouth.

Thousands of people turned out to shop, fundraise and be entertained at the Wyke Regis Christmas Fayre yesterday.

Festive treats including mince pies and mulled wine were on offer, as well as traditional entertainment by way of choirs singing carols and Father Christmas’ grotto.

Kim Saint took her children Maisie, 10, and George, five, to the event.

She said: “It’s something we come to every year, because it’s a great family event.

“There’s a fun atmosphere, and it’s lovely to meet up with people you haven’t seen for a while.”

Maisie, who sang with the choir, added: “I really enjoyed singing and then going around the fair.”

Her brother George said: “It’s really good because I got to meet Santa twice today.”

Ballonatic Kevin Hart kept adults and children entertained with his creations.

He said: “The fair is really exciting. There’s a superb atmosphere and it’s a proper old fashioned Christmas fair.”

He added that this year’s event was one of the busiest he has seen.

At the scout’s stall it was marshmallows rather than chestnuts that were being roasted up for a Christmas treat.

Scout leader of the Weymouth south group Adrian Parry said: “This is a great opportunity for us to get involved in our community.

“It is important to us that we support local events, and we are happy to be here.”

He added: “Having the fire going has drawn people over.

“ The kids are enjoying it and it’s a good example of what scouts can be about.”

The event dates back more than 700 years to 1248, when King Henry III granted villagers permission to hold an annual fair in Wyke Regis on the feast of St Nicholas.

And 2012 brought more than seasonal cheer with the official opening of the village store.

Mayor of Weymouth and Portland councillor Margaret Leicester opened the shop on Wyke Square at 2pm.

Owner Rob Cheeseman said he and staff had a ‘lovely welcome’ from residents.

He said: “We have had a lot of support, and I think people realise what a valuable asset a village shop is to the community. I think it did affect the square when the old shop closed last year, so it’s good to be here, and it’s great to be a part of the fair.”