Christmas sailed into Whaley Bridge on Friday night (29 November.)   A flotilla of six boats, all decorated with Christmas lights, arrived in the canal basin. Santa Claus, on the sixth boat, received a great welcome, especially from youngsters with their home-made lanterns left over from Fireworks Night.

Santa was escorted  to his grotto in Footsteps, where he distributed gifts to children who patiently queued outside the drop-in centre.

Hundreds of people were on the streets of Whaley Bridge.  Border morris group Powderkegs,  in flamboyant outfits, offered their special entertainment. Late evening shoppers, diners and drinkers, were out and about.  A Christmas market inside the Mechanics’ Institute was judged to be the best in recent years.

Highlight of the evening was the switching-on of the Christmas tree in the station car park by town council chair Martin Thomas.  Carols were accompanied by Whaley Bridge band.

Merry Christmas, Whaley Bridge!