In pictures: 17,000 attend Ely Cathedral Gift and Food Fair 2023

The annual Ely Cathedral Gift and Food Fair welcomed more than 17,000 shoppers.

The cathedral was packed with stallholders selling gifts, homewares, ornaments and food and drink between Friday and Sunday (November 17-19).

The event was a sell-out but thousands more people who were unable to get tickets enjoyed an improved outdoor festive village.

The fair has been running since 2012, although there was an interruption due to the pandemic, and has become the biggest of its kind in the county.

Lesley Ann Thompson, director of communications and commerce, said: “The event has changed and evolved greatly over the years to accommodate the growing number of exhibitors and visitors.

“The Christmas Fair marks the start of a busy time for the cathedral with many services, concerts and family events running throughout Advent and Christmas.”

More details on the cathedral’s Christmas events can be found at https://www.elycathedral.org/plan-your-visit/christmas-2023

Before the fair got under way, the choristers from the cathedral enjoyed a spin on the traditional carousel following early morning choir practice last Thursday morning.

The resident choristers wore their red cassocks as they took time out from their busy rehearsals.