SHOPPERS have been taken aback after stumbling across Christmas festivities at a shopping centre near Evesham five months early.

The Valley Evesham brought Christmas early to shoppers on July 27 with snow machines, a giant gingerbread house and Christmas dinner. 

Retail director at The Valley, Phil Maclean, said: "We aimed to create a truly memorable and unique experience for our visitors.

"Christmas in July offers families the chance to enjoy the magic of Christmas in a completely different setting.

"It’s all about spreading joy and having fun, no matter the season.

“The turnout was fantastic, showing just how much people love Christmas.

"The atmosphere was brilliant, with many visitors embracing the whacky festive spirit we intended.

"For those who were unaware of the event, hearing Christmas music in the mall might have been a bit surprising, but rest assured, we’re back to our summer festivities now… at least until the real Christmas comes around again."

Families flocked to The Valley dressed in Christmas outfits to the event which was organised in support of BBC Dragon Sara Davies's Crafters Companion's Christmas product. 

One Attendee, Jo Edwards, said on Facebook: "I think that's just the wackiest fabulous idea I've ever seen. 

"The world seems so messed up just now and what we need is Christmas lights and all the trimmings. 

"This sounds perfectly justified to me. 

"Away all you grinches, just be gone with you as the good fairy would say."

For the day, the Crafters Companion store was transformed into a giant gingerbread house, complete with a snow machine.

Another attendee, Sarah Thompson, said on Facebook: "We had an absolute blast. 

"My kids loved seeing Santa in the summer, and the snow machine was a magical touch."

The Valley is home to a range of shops, restaurants and family-friendly activities and Martin and Carr Vets recently announced that it would be moving to the shopping centre from Lime Street in Evesham.

Talking about the move, Amy Baldwin, clinical director at Martin and Carr Vets said: "So far, the vast majority of customers have responded very positively and have said that they are looking forward to the new premises. 

"We do appreciate that for some local customers, they will no longer be able to walk to us, and it will take longer to travel, however it will definitely be worthwhile."