Swaffham town people turn out for festive weekend
Swaffham was filled to the rink with festive activities at the weekend.
Ice skating, meeting Father Christmas, a lantern parade and a Christmas market were just some of the festive delights on offer over two days.
It was the first year the event was extended across both days and volunteers and sponsors helped made it happen.
Swaffham town turned out in force with visitors from far and wide to enjoy two days of festive fun.
Claire Smith, deputy town clerk said: "We were very pleased with how the event went and it was really really busy.
"There were lots of different stalls and things going on to suit all ages."
Ice skating proved extremely popular with pre bookings online filling up the spaces and volunteers helped to hand out the skates.
Claire said: "Volunteers and the guys from Tesco and the police cadets were brilliant and helped out with the ice rink.
"We are very sorry if anyone who turned up didn't manage to get on to the ice skating.
"Hopefully there will be another time, the message is to book early."
The weekend was absolutely jam packed with things to do and luckily the weather held out for the lantern parade.
Claire said: "Kiddies from local schools were asked to make home-made lanterns and come along to Swaffham.
"They all walked from the car park to the stage along with Father Christmas in his lit up Santa sleigh.
"All the children had a photo with Father Christmas."
The Christmas market had lots of good feedback from social media and the Blues Brothers band and tribute to Little Mix saw people dancing and singing at the front of the stage with enthusiasm.
Lady Roberts, deputy Lord Lieutenant, on behalf of Lady Dannatt MBE, and Swaffham's mayor Judy Anscombe switched on the lights.
Lady Roberts also presented the town with an award to the community for the resilience throughout the pandemic.
Councillor Judy Anscombe said: "A year ago we were sad that we couldn’t deliver the town’s Christmas lights event, and to make up for missing a year town council decided to do something bigger and better.
"A working group was formed, and volunteers and organisations were canvassed to support with all the tasks required.
The businesses came on board with raffle prizes and sponsorship and the result last weekend was a great event, enjoyed by all ages and attracted visitors to our town.
"The buzz and the feeling of the town joining together in the community spirit that Swaffham has shown in the last year, was something special.
"Thanks to everyone involved in a great team effort.
"As part of the Christmas event, we were delighted to be presented by Lady Roberts, deputy lieutenant of Norfolk, with a memorial plaque, to commemorate the resilience of our community during the pandemic.
"This is to mark a year in which our community care and consideration for others has been at the forefront and I am so proud of our community and how we have continued to support each other."
"It was such a good event and people turned out even in the inclement weather it did not stop their enthusiasm."
