It proved to be jingle all the way when I was joined by the mayors and civic heads of the surrounding districts – collectively, nicknamed ‘the chain gang’ – for the opening of the 27th Victorian Fayre. Sadly, my power over those that control the weather is direly limited. But despite the really dreadful conditions my heart was warmed more than I can say by the amount of Worcester souls who still braved the elements and turned out for what’s never less than the most shining highlight in the city’s winter calendar and the official signal that Christmas has begun. So long as Worcester folk continue to show such spirit and support, the Faithful City will never have cause for concern, so my thanks to all.

A further gladdening prospect was the number of traders who continue to set-up their stalls here year after year. I even had the opportunity to chat to one who was at the first Fayre and has not missed one since. That came as I had the pleasure and delight of judging the Best Victorian Dress and Best Stall competition. Judging is based on the combination of Christmas spirit and Victorian dress and while every stall offered plenty of one or the other, the winners were those who fully entered into the spirit of things by demonstrating both. My congratulations to them.

Entering no less into the Christmas spirit, the Victorian Fayre Fringe that I attended in the Hopmarket continues to grow at a rate of knots – and long may that pleasing trend continue, too.

Another feature that makes the Victorian Fayre so super-special is the welcome presence of the official representatives of our twin towns, Le Vésinet, Ukmerge and Kleve – all of whom remained here to attend the Twinning Association Christmas dinner. I so hope that Brexit won’t detract from the enduring friendship we enjoy with our very special European ‘twins’ and that the pairing notion will continue to flourish.

All in all, an enchanting week, commendably – and most impressively – topped by the RGS Year 1 and 2 Christmas performance. Wonderful.