Santa delivers a sackful of festive fun to party
THIS weekend a Rhondda town showed that it can compete with the best of them as it put on a brilliant Christmas festival and parade.
Treorchy, which is at the top of the Rhondda, held a festive day complete with Santa’s Grotto, Christmas activities, a giant snow globe, brass bands and a craft market.
The day culminated in a Christmas parade featuring winter floats, naughty elves, reindeer, local dancers and Father and Mother Christmas.
Thousands streamed into the town during the day, despite the miserable weather, and the high street was lined with people for the parade through the town. The event was organised by the Treorchy Chamber of Trade which has recently launched the Visit Treorchy website - and RCT Council.
Local Big Brother runner-up, Akeem Griffiths was on hand to turn the Christmas tree lights on outside the Lion Hotel where the parade passed before ending at Treorchy Boys and Girls Club.
Adrian Emmett, Chairman of Treorchy Chamber of Trade, told WalesOnline that the parade is the result of a true community partnership.
He said: “This is an example of what can be achieved when we work together, this is a real community project. We have put on this event for Christmas to thank the community for their support through the year.
“Treorchy Christmas Parade has been running for a number of years, but this year has been the best ever.”
Watch Manager Simon Bound from Treorchy Fire Station, which played a big part in the parade, said: “Our crews always look forward to taking part in the annual Christmas Parade, it is a huge event in our community calendar. The event this year was the biggest and best event Treorchy has ever seen and, as a Community Fire Station, we are all very proud to be a part of it.”
Stowford Caravans, who supplied the floats for the parade are already planning next year’s floats.
Angela Bound from the company said: “The community spirit in Treorchy is truly incredible.”
The event had an enthusiastic response on social media, with lots of locals, and some further afield, taking to Facebook to praise the festive event.
Catrina Codd wrote: “Everything yesterday was outstanding! So much going on and the parade was amazing! It would give any of the cities a run for their money!”
Carly Acreman wrote: “Fabulous Christmas parade tonight in Treorchy and watching these girls dance as part of it was the best #proudmam @tiptopsdance another amazing opportunity.” Nicola Davies said: “Treorchy Christmas parade was magical had a lush day!”