Southwark Council says that up to 20,000 shoppers enjoyed the Scandinavian Christmas Market outside the Finnish and Norwegian Churches in Albion Street this past weekend..

Around 40 traders from overseas and closer to home offered a range of goods and present ideas, decorations and hearty Scandinavian food.

Visitors also had the chance to be photographed with husky dogs and even meet the Ice Queen and Father Christmas.

The event was organised by Southwark Council in partnership with The Norwegian Church in London, The Finnish Church in London, the Albion Street Community Group and Scan Events.

“The Scandinavian Market has proven to be a great way to kick off the festive season, and was a wonderful opportunity for another of Southwark’s international communities to introduce us to something new,” said Cllr Barrie Hargrove, cabinet member for environment, transport and recycling.