Old Town Christmas Spectacular

Sponsored by the Old Town Preservation Society and Jewson Bexhill, the event captured the essence of the holiday season with a variety of fun activities.

Children and adults delighted in the chance to see real reindeer - surprisingly docile creatures given the commotion surrounding them - accompanying jolly old Santa.

The public may also have noticed a familiar looking Town Crier welcoming them to Bexhill's own winter wonderland; a closer inspection would reveal him to be Rother Councillor Eric Armstrong, throwing himself into the celebrations with gusto.

Those looking for a real taste of Christmas had the opportunity to try roasted chestnuts as they made their way through the (fake) snow.

And the haunting melodies of St Peter's Church Choir, joined by the excellent Hooe Brass Band for an evening performance, would have put a smile on the face of Ebenezer Scrooge himself.

If that wasn't enough, children (and big kids) could visit the Sure Start face painting stand in Manor Barn or take a twirl on the imported skating rink.

A group of disabled youngsters relished the opportunity to have the first turn on the ice.

One resident felt moved enough to write to organisers: "I felt I had to say thank you for a wonderful couple days - what an excellent start to Christmas.

"A disabled, now terminally ill child, Aaron, I used to teach and his disabled brother Dion, plus brother Jordan and sister Robyn had the time of their lives...we were delighted to be able to take them on the ice skating rink all together."

Pauline Bullock of the Old Town Preservation Society, said: "It was all worth it just to see the smiles on children's faces when they saw Father Christmas and the reindeer.

"We were aiming for a real community event and it is wonderful to see. We achieved what we set out to do, in making a Christmas event that everybody could enjoy."

It is hoped the event will return next year.

Pictures JANE KEEN

Report DANIEL COLLINS