Photos by Angus Matheson of Wainwright & Matheson Photography
As estimated 10,000 people packed out picturesque Birkdale Village in Southport for the much-awaited return of its Christmas Fair.
Part of Liverpool Road was closed to traffic as visitors celebrated the switching on of the lights on the Christmas tree.
Thousands enjoyed Christmas shopping in the Village’s unique independent shops as they enjoyed a day of live music, fairground rides, stalls and other attractions.
Father Christmas of course paid a very special visit.
The event was organised by Birkdale Civic Society working with local businesses, with Southport Rotary providing stewards.
The event also saw money raised for those less fortunate this Christmas via Southport Foodbank and Southport Salvation Army.
Birkdale Civic Society Chairman Charlotte Woods said: “After three years of no large events in the village, we wanted to bring back the Christmas Fayre with as big of a bang as we could!
“We have been really fortunate to work with the village traders, the Rotary, and The Birkdale Community Hub & Library to organise an event which has been much missed by the community, and the traders and make it the best one yet.
“As well as supporting our local small businesses, we wanted to ensure that everyone has the chance to have a special festive period, and thanks to Sally Bee and Polanskys, we set up a hugely successful donation station for The Southport Food Bank (Compassion Acts) and the Salvation Army Gift Appeal.
“By the end of the day, we had over 200 selection boxes alone, as well as lots of other Christmas food goodies. Over 180 gift donations, including toys and toiletries were collected, and we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated.
“Throughout the day thousands of people came to enjoy the rides, the food and our Christmas Tree switch on.
“A big thank you to all the volunteers who we wouldn’t be able to run these events without.”
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