Whittlesey celebrates the beginning of Christmas with its annual extravaganza bringing crowds flocking to the town

Hundreds turned out on a cold winter evening for the annual celebrations to mark the beginning of Christmas in Whittlesey.

The Whittlesey Extravaganza has become a festive feature and this year’s community led event was bigger and more colourful than ever.

Not only did events take place in and around the market square but for the first time shops and activities captivated mums, dads and especially children in nearby streets.

Father Christmas’s arrival was, of course, a highlight but there were many others that included a delightful dinosaur strutting through the town and a stilt walking Elsa who enchanted both young and old alike.

Lynn Palmer, chairman of the extravaganza, said he it had been hard work but well worth the effort. She particularly praised her committee of volunteers and the many local groups that turned out to support the event and run charity stalls.

“Thank you also to all those who gave up their precious time to help us steward the event,” she said.

“A really big thank you to all our sponsors without whom this evening wouldn’t have been possible.”

But her biggest thanks were to the “residents of Whittlesey and surrounding areas for supporting the evening despite the cold and making it a huge success.

“It has been a massive learning curve for us and we hope you all enjoyed the evening.”

Already plans are being discussed for next year that could include finding the cash to close the main road through the town for a brief period.

It was a point mentioned several times with one mum saying that “it was a good evening and great atmosphere but just a shame more thought wasn’t put in to the road closures around the event.

“I’m surprised there wasn’t an accident with all the families walking about.”

Local councillor Alex Miscandlon said that as the event grows it would be something that would need to be considered for the future.

Dozens took to social media to offer their congratulations with one mum writing that “my two girls were so excited and had so much fun tonight. Thank you for organizing such a great event.”

Overwhelming the comments was in praise of the night’s event.

“After a stressful day moving house, our kids were absolutely thrilled,” said one mother.

“The atmosphere was amazing, and I can see how this will be become a huge occasion to look forward to every year. Well done everyone, you should be very proud.”

The evening was officially opened by the Mayor Cllr Ralph Butcher