Lantern parade to kick off festivities

It will form part of a day of events in Whitchurch on November 28, including an outdoor market, funfair and entertainment.

The parade will begin its journey from the Market Hall at 4.30pm and the Christmas light switch on at the Civic Centre at 5pm. Town centre workers Zoe Dean and Stephen Platt are among those getting their lanterns ready for the big day.

Whitchurch Town Council said it is pulling out all the stops to make this year's festive period the best yet.

The Christmas lights switch on event will be held on November 28, with an outdoor market, funfair and entertainment.

Zoë Dean, town centre manager/assistant town clerk, said the day will start at 10am when the town centre's outdoor Christmas market will open.

She said: "The Bullring will be the home of a mini fairground for the day.

"Father Christmas is taking some time out of his busy schedule to visit on sleigh from 12pm onwards, kindly supported by Whitchurch Rotary Club.

"Maggie May's Academy of Dance will rock the streets with their dance moves and Glo's Cheerleaders will be creating a storm.

"Keep your eyes peeled for our special guests the Minions, who will be popping up throughout the day."

In addition to these events St John's Church will be running their annual Christmas fair in the Civic Centre's main hall from 10am and children under 12 years can make a bejewelled crown at Whitchurch Library from 10.30am until 11.30am.

Also St Alkmund's Church at the top of the High Street will be filled with a display of Christmas nativity scenes from all around the world and seasonal refreshments from 10am until 6pm.

Zoë Dean added: "We still have some pitches remaining for the outdoor Christmas Market but they are booking up very quickly. I have been amazed by the interest the event has already generated so far."

The day will end with a lantern parade, which will begin its journey from the Market Hall at 4.30pm and the Christmas light switch on at the Civic Centre at 5pm.

Organisers are encouraging people to stay and shop in Whitchurch after the lights have been switched on as the Christmas market will be operating until 6pm and the shops will be staying open until late.

For more information, call 01948 665761