Festive fun fills Rochdale

Photo: Laura Wild

Rochdale reindeer parade - 2010

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Santa and his reindeer touched down in Rochdale today (Sunday 5 December 2010) as a treat for families on the run up to Christmas.

Hundreds of people lined Yorkshire Street to watch a festive filled reindeer parade.

The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Zulfiqar Ali and Rochdale Town Centre Manager Debbie O’Brien led the parade followed by Santa and three real reindeer.

Also in the parade were children from Castleton Primary School, Shawclough Primary School, St Thomas' Primary School, Brimrod Primary School and Newlands School. The children all displayed art work they created especially for the parade.

The Littleborough Public Brass Band were also on hand to play some classic Christmas songs.

The parade concluded at the Butts where children could pet the Reindeer, enjoy some fairground rides and watch street theatre.
 
Mayor Ali summed up the event when he said: "It’s not often you see a crowd like that in a town centre."

He added: "The reindeer and Father Christmas bring the true spirit of Christmas. I can see everyone is really excited. This puts the Christmas feeling into Rochdale."

Debbie O'Brien, said: "There is a real community feel. This is real Christmas, a real family event which is exciting and fun. Christmas really starts with the reindeer parade."