A TASTE of a bygone era came to Dunmow as the Catholic church held its annual Victorian-themed Christmas market. The event is the biggest fund-raiser of the year for the Dunmow church and raised £3,750, which will be used to support the parish churches in

A TASTE of a bygone era came to Dunmow as the Catholic church held its annual Victorian-themed Christmas market.

The event is the biggest fund-raiser of the year for the Dunmow church and raised £3,750, which will be used to support the parish churches in the town and in Hatfield Broad Oak.

Claire Reeve, parish publicity officer, said: "This was a fantastic amount to raise and people are always very supportive of the market.

"Everyone had a great time and the stall holders helped by dressing up in Victorian costume."

More than 300 people came through the doors and cash was raised from the sale of teas, cakes, gifts, DVDs, CDs and toys.

Visitors were also able to try their luck with two tombolas and a raffle, and children visited Father Christmas in his grotto.

The parish has pledged £1000 of the proceeds to a Third World project. Last year the money went to provide water in Africa.

Ms Reeve thanked everyone who helped make the event on Saturday a success, especially Lynda Crush and her team of helpers who set out the stalls and put the decorations up in the hall.