WHITTLESEY is set for a bumper Christmas with two key efforts scheduled.

Whittlesey and District Business Forum will welcome MP Steve Barclay at 5.30pm on December 10 to open the Christmas Extravaganza centred on the Market Square, Whittlesey.

There will be lots for everyone to do, the New Road Molly, Sir Harry’s Sword and Saddletramp line dancers will all be entertaining the crowd.

Peterborough Highland band will march in. Punch & Judy and stilt-walking Christmas trees will be adding to the fun, as well as face painting and balloon modelling. ‘Pride of the Fens’ steam engine and the Thursford organ will bring their own charm to the evening.

Lots of local charities will have stalls loaded with Christmas items to tempt customers and there are the children’s funfair and rides.

Many of the local businesses will be staying open to give another chance to browse and shop, as the countdown to Christmas gets closer.

The winner of the children’s window competition will be announced just before the band of the Salvation Army joins with the voices of St Mary’s Choir, the Whittlesey Singers, and visitors, to bring the evening to a rousing end with carols under the Buttercross.

Also in Whittlesey The Friends of St Mary’s Church, are putting the final touches to the preparation for their Christmas Tree Festival.

All parts of the community are producing a myriad of different trees, in all kinds of styles. The local schools, nurseries, businesses, clubs, Brownie and Guide groups and families all take part.

Shirley Wright, secretary, said: “This year the Motorcycle Club will be here for the first time. We also have a Tree of Remembrance, an empty tree and a basket of gift tags upon which we invite you to remember loved ones we no longer see. This tree remains in church throughout the Christmas season.”

She added that St Mary’s Ladies Working Party provide refreshments throughout the weekend.

It is open on Friday December 10 at 10 am until 8 pm; Saturday 10 am to 5 pm; Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Entrance costs �2 per 17 yrs plus; �1 per 5 – 16yrs; under 5yrs are free.

On Sunday the festival closes with a carol service led by the choir and band of St Mary’s at 6pm. There will be mulled wine and mince pies to refresh after the service.

All proceeds will be spent carefully to the benefit of the building of St Mary’s Church.