An advent calendar with a difference is being played out on the streets of Ewell this Christmas.

Traders are counting down to Christmas with 22 shops and two churches taking turns to unveil special festive window displays each day.

The first window opens at 3.30pm at All Things Nice cafe on the High Street on December 1, and the last on Christmas Eve with the crib at St. Mary’s Church.

Rev Sue Ayling, assistant priest at St Mary’s church, came up with the idea which incorporates posters, designed by Epsom schoolchildren, which shops will build their displays around.

She said: "It’s the first time we’ve done this so we didn’t know how enthusiastic the shops would be, but the dates got booked-up really quickly which was exciting."

Year five schoolchildren at St. Martin’s School are designing the individual A3 Christmas-themed posters for each advent calendar number.

Brian Angus, chairman of Ewell Resident’s Association, said: "It has captured the imagination of the traders."

"We want Ewell to be a healthy trading village and are also working to have a proper road closure for the first time, if the majority wants it, which would give the High Street a different atmosphere."

This initiative is a joint project between St Mary’s Church and the Ewell Village Traders, with openings taking place at 3.30pm each day.

Ewell Yule will help the village ease into the festive spirit with mulled wine, carolling, games, entertainment and a treasure trail, taking place on November 28 from 4-8pm.