Santa Claus came to town last week as the Christmas lights were switched on in Winchester --heralding the start of the festive season in the city and the rush for the shops.
Stores in the city centre opened late on Thursday as the cast of the Theatre Royal's pantomime, Puss in Boots, made merry and the girl choristers from Winchester Cathedral led carol singing at the Buttercross, and Win FM broadcast a live radio roadshow.
The garlands of sparkling lights that deck the city centre were switched on at 6.45pm, to the delight of youngsters who had been enjoying sleigh rides with Father Christmas at St Maurice's Covert.
And from this Saturday, all the boys and girls who have been very good this year, and even those who haven't, will be able to visit Santa in his grotto at the Brooks Centre.
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