The wonder of Woodley
Christmas picture special inside
WOODLEY’S festive celebration was a massive hit as the crowds turned out for the Winter Extravaganza.
Run for the 21st year, the event takes over the town centre with a mixture of charity, craft and food stalls.
Local groups including Starlet Dance School and Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow entertained crowds with a mixture of song and dance routines on the main stage, while morris dancers, jazz bands and circus stars roamed the parade to the delight of all ages.
The event was opened by the deputy mayor of Woodley, Cllr Sam Rahmouni.
He said: “This is the 21st Woodley town extravaganza. Each year the Town Centre Management Initiative does a marvellous job organising this event.
“I would like to thank Jacques Lherbier for all his hard work.
“I am sure that this year’s extravaganza will be better than ever.”
After he finished, Woodley’s town crier, Tony Roper, rang his bell to announce that Santa was on his way.
The annual procession, from one end of the Crockhamwell Road precinct to the other, was headed up by the Castle Royal Jazz Band and saw members of Circus Scene perform before Santa arrived, pulled by reindeer.
He was assisted by
Mrs Claus and two local children, Rosie and Matthew Stevenson.
Stalls included a chance to toast marshmallows from the 3rd Woodley Scouts, a card game from the Woodley Foodbank and face-painting and crafts from Churches Together in Woodley.
There were also tombolas, games, food stalls and festive crafts available to buy.