TILL bells will be ringing in Christmas in Romsey today with the town's annual late night shopping evening.

Santa is expected to arrive in style before taking up residence in his grotto at Smith Bradbeer.

To the sound of a drum roll by the Totton girls' and boys' brigade, he will climb down a ladder from the roof of Lloyds TSB Bank and get inside an old fire engine.

After a tour of the town Santa will go into the store to meet children and give out presents. As well as the chance to spend from 6pm until 9pm, there will be entertainment from the Mountbatten School choir in the Market Place, while the Lockerley Silver Band will be performing in The Cornmarket.

There will also be a Victorian roundabout for small children on the corner of Latimer Street, a Punch and Judy show, and lots of clowns to entertain shoppers.

Father Christmas will be in Smith Bradbeer again on Saturday morning.

Greg Davies, Smith Bradbeer manager and Romsey Chamber of Commerce president, said: "It should be a busy night and lots of fun.

"People can book a place to come and see Santa at Bradbeer's for a charge of £3, to cover the price of a gift."

Romsey mayor Cheryl Collier said: "It's not just the shops open late that night - it's a lot more of an event."

Romsey Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers to act as stewards during late night shopping. If you can help, call the chamber office on 01794 515555.