Shrewsbury has been voted as one of the best places in England to be over Christmas.

The medieval town was highlighted in the top 10 places to go over the festive period in a search by Best Western Hotels.

The town is already in the Christmas spirit with its festive lights welcoming shoppers to the town centre while a Victorian Christmas market in the Square proved popular yesterday.

On Wednesday crowds are expected to fill the streets for the annual Carols in the Square evening, which will feature festive songs, music and fun for all the family.

Councillor Peter Nutting, leader of Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council, welcomed the news.

“Shrewsbury is recognised now as a brilliant place for shopping and eating out and is one of the leading towns in the West Midlands,” he said.

Best Western Hotels said Shrewsbury was nominated by residents and people who have visited over Christmas because of its “unique blend of entertainment, set in beautiful surroundings”.

The company appointed its own director of Christmas, Declan Austin, to conduct the search.

He said: “Shrewsbury goes that extra mile and really is full of season’s greetings and glad tidings.

“It’s a beautiful place to visit at this time of year with Christmas by candlelight, stunning lights and seasonal entertainment all through December.”

Chester was voted the best place to go in Britain this Christmas.

Do you agree with the survey? Is Shrewsbury Shropshire’s festive champion or is there somewhere else you’d rather be this Christmas? Have your say  in the Comment box below.