FATHER Christmas had a busy morning in Dursley on Saturday taking orders for presents from excited children.

The Christmas shopping day in the town was hit by heavy rain but shoppers continued to enjoy the festive farmers' market.

Traders enjoyed increased business on the day, but carol singing was called off due to the weather.

Sue Jones, owner of R.P Jones in Long Street, said: "Trade was good on Saturday, there were shoppers about but the rain kept some people away.

"Father Christmas was very busy in the morning and there was a lot of good feeling around on the day."

Mrs Jones said that trade in town has been "up and down" during the Christmas build up.

"It is important for people to recognise that there are a good range of shops in Dursley and people can get some good bargains in the town for Christmas," said Mrs Jones.

"It is a more enjoyable place to shop than busy indoor shopping centres."

Mark Williams, from Clifton Cameras in Parsonage Street, said: "Saturday was absolutely manic for us in the shop. I think the weather killed the day a bit but we were very busy."

The Children's Christmas competition was cancelled on Saturday but will now run from this Saturday until Saturday, December 22.

Children have to find the 10 chocolate snowmen in shop windows in the town centre and prizes include family trips to the swimming pool and gym sessions.

Collect forms from Wildwood flowers, R.P Jones or other shops in the town to enter.