THOUSANDS of families are expected to flood into Abingdon today for the start of the annual Michaelmas Fair.

The two-day extravaganza will, once again, transform the town with its fair rides and stalls from midday to 11pm.

The Michaelmas Fair is the longest street fair in Europe, running from the Market Place, through the High Street, The Square and the full length of Ock Street.

It is named after the feast of St Michael, dates back to the 14th century when it was a hiring event for rural farmworkers in the area.

Road closures will be in place from 8am.