GERMAN guests were among thousands of visitors at a special Christmas event.
This year's Dorking Gala Night had an "around the world" theme, with international food and many people in costumes from a variety of countries.
The real-life overseas visitors, from Dorking's twin town of Guglingen, in Germany, ran stalls selling a selection of German Christmas goodies.
Speaking at the event last Thursday, Anna Werner, of Guglingen, said: "I cannot believe how pretty Dorking is.
"There is a wonderful atmosphere and all the children are having so much fun.
"Dorking seems very Christmassy so I am very happy to be spending part of the holidays here.
"The architecture is beautiful and the town has put on some great activities for people."
Live music and local dance troupes entertained crowds in St Martin's Walk, while stilt walkers, hula-hoopers and children's entertainers roamed the High Street.
Jenny Tanner, 48, of South Holmwood, said: "Everyone in the family, young and old, has come along and there is a real family feeling in the town.
"The children have been really enjoying themselves looking at all the people dressed as characters from different countries and trying to guess where they are from.
"I think the 'around the world' theme has been a great idea, as it's fun and topical, as Dorking has really been put on the map by the Olympic road races."
David Barrington, 60, of Leatherhead, said he and his family come to the gala night every year and invite relatives all the way down from Birmingham.
"It is a fantastic occasion every year and the aunt and uncle insist on travelling all the way down the M40 every time it comes around," he said.
"I think they have really pulled out all the stops this year. Even the coppers seem relaxed and were engaging in a bit of banter with the youngsters.
"I think the town can be really proud of what they put on tonight."
