Christmas kicks off, 1 December

Free mulled wine and mince pies! Fairground rides! Carol singing! Christmas lights in Friary Gardens!

The First of December is always a cheerful occasion, for young and not-so-young, whatever the weather. There's something about the bright lights, the crowds, the music, the dark night...

1 December will also be a chance for some after-hours Christmas shopping. Pop into the Market Hall, where all the stalls will be waiting to welcome you. Visit the Info Centre, which has a huge selection of charity Christmas cards, and  a pretty good range of local-interest books and calendars (just the thing for your rellies). Did we mention mulled wine? And mince pies..?

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