Southport Visiter

Crowds turn out to join the

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BIRKDALE came alive for its annual Christmas fayre. The village’s series of independen­t businesses opened late to welcome customers while families also enjoyed fairground rides, a hog roast, a Scottish piper and entertainm­ent.

The event was organised by Birkdale Trading Associatio­n.

Father Christmas paid a visit and spent three hours chatting to the local children, while some traders dressed in Christmas and Victorian attire, and many of the shops offered discounts and treats on the evening.

People were also treated to mischief from the Starkidz elves, carol singers, live music at Birkers and the Tea Rooms, seasonal special offers within the shops, and much more.

Birkdale boasts a great mixture of old and new businesses, including cafes, restaurant­s, gift shops and beautician­s all with the same purpose: to give exceptiona­l customer service and a unique experience.

Matthew Rycraft, whose wedding photograph­y studio is based on Liverpool Road, said that the fayre showed off the best of the village.

He said: “It went spectacula­rly well, there was a fantastic turnout from local residents.

“We had plenty of local businesses, with unique products on offer inside and outside the shops.

“There were lots of homemade products and homemade foods as well so people could be sure to get something special.

“The village was buzzing and everyone enjoyed themselves.”

The popularity of last year’s event meant that a road closure was needed this time around, and Matthew Rycraft praised the village traders , led by Victoria Formby of The Jewellers Bench, for coming together to fund and organise the closure at short notice.

With a closure likely to happen again next year, an even bigger event is expected, with more stalls and rides likely to be booked to make use of the extra space.

 ??  ?? Schoolchil­dren provided the music for the Nativity
Schoolchil­dren provided the music for the Nativity
 ??  ?? Just like the Paul McCartney Christmas hit, this piper is playing the pipes of peace
Just like the Paul McCartney Christmas hit, this piper is playing the pipes of peace
 ??  ?? Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without gingerbrea­d and this stall had a fine selection
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without gingerbrea­d and this stall had a fine selection
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