Surrey Street will be echoing with Christmas carols and songs from local musicians on  Thursday 15 December.

Between 5pm and 8pm the music will be setting the scene for roast chestnuts, mulled wine and the best street food the market has to offer.

It’s an open mic set-up, so anyone wanting to perform can just sign up on the night.

And for anyone wanting to post photos and videos of the performances onto their favourite social media websites there is now fast free Wi-Fi available throughout Surrey Street. The 24-7 service is part of the council’s £1m investment in improving the experience for shoppers visiting the area.

By next spring the street will be transformed with a range of other improvements, from public art and architectural lighting to new pavements and street surfaces.

The night is run in partnership with the council by local promoters of great music and fine food, ‘Beats & Eats’. They will be leading the action between The Green Dragon and Eatwell, Surrey Street’s newest permanent café and gourmet outside catering firm.

Money will be raised for homeless charity Crisis, who are setting up a base in Surrey Street from where they will offer classes and advice surgeries to people looking for somewhere to live.

“Christmas is a great time to remember that we’re part of a fantastic community. Our town is lucky to have a huge number of people with energy and talent who are keen to put smiles on the faces of everyone around them. These nights are perfect for anyone leaving the office to stop off and get a bite to eat and a hot glass of mulled wine while listening to live music.”

Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for economy and jobs