EVEN THE COLD WEATHER CAN'T DAMPEN ECCLES CHRISTMAS CHEER

Despite dreadful weather conditions that included freezing cold temperatures and rain, the people of Eccles turned out to see, Santa Claus in Eccles Precinct.

The plan was for Santa to sit in his Grotto and give a festive greeting to the young children visiting him with their Christmas lists, however at the last minute, organiser Pam Pickard moved him into the unit she was using for free craft displays.

"It's a shame about the weather but we were determined the event would go ahead as planned and I am delighted at the number of people who have brought their children to see Santa, everybody has left with a smile on their face"

With free entry and each child getting a free gift and Christmas crackers to take home, which were kindly donated by Sue Marsh, the Community Champion from Morrison's Store, the day was a big hit.

Santa's little helpers were the aptly named Chilli and Ashlee, Guides from the 1st Patricroft troop, who when not busy helping the children make Christmas cards and decorations at the craft tables were chatting to the parents and children stood wide eyed looking at Santa.

"We are more than happy to help out and get in the festive spirit" said Chilli...not sure if that is her real name!

"We have been helping each year and since the Covid epidemic wiped out the last few Christmases, it is good to smiling faces once again"

Donations were received and all money raised was given to Sue Marsh at Morrisons who was putting the money towards food parcels for distribution to various local charities.

£72,76 was raised from a Teddy Tombola and donations which will be spent on food for local foodbanks, Twenty teddy bears including a huge one were donated and tickets were £2 each.