Father Christmas and his reindeer ‘flew’ into Christchurch on 29 November. They arrived at Peeks Partystore before making their way down Bargates and along the High Street. Children were then able to see them outside the Priory where they could also give their Christmas wish letters to Father Christmas.
Thousands turned out to enjoy the festivities and entertainment that included a Christmas Market. Crowds gathered in front of the Old Town Hall for the count down to the lights switch on led by Zoe and Rich from Heart FM, the stars of the BIC’s panto, Peter Pan and the Mayor, Cllr Denise Jones.
Kim Skinner, Chairman of the Christchurch Christmas Festival Committee, said: “The Christchurch Christmas Festival team were full of cheer after a fantastic Christmas Festival in Christchurch. The weather was superb which enabled the huge crowds to enjoy the entertainment and Christmas Market to the full. As Father Christmas and his reindeer made their way through the High Street and on to the Priory, the numbers swelled even further.
“The event was concluded with the Christmas light switch-on serenaded by the Rock Choir at 6pm. The large crowds stayed on to enjoy the atmosphere and the addition of the Alpine Bar seemed a hit judging by the numbers of people sitting in Saxon Square at 8pm. This year’s event has bought a welcome boost for Christchurch traders in the High Street.”
