Here comes Noddy for Christmas

CHRISTMAS came early to Uppermill when Santa toured High Street handing out mince pies and mulled wine. Inside the suit was John Lowe, from Failsworth, a chef at Clough Manor and he was promoting the Denshaw hotel’s festive menus. Eda Ainscough, Kathleen Flemming and Joan Hobbs, all from Outram Mews — were clearly delighted with their treats.

CHILDREN’S favourite Noddy will switch on Oldham town centre’s Christmas lights to start off a festive period of singing, dancing and drama.

Real reindeer will parade through the centre on Saturday, November 8, with Father Christmas at the helm.

He will be accompanied by The Snowman and other storybook characters as well as marching bands.

The lights switch-on will take place the following Sunday (16) with live entertainment from 2pm and appearances from Father Christmas as well as the Tommyfield Market Prince and Princess before Noddy takes to the stage at 5pm.

In the past, a young Coronation Street cast member has usually done the honours, but changes have been made in a bid to make the event more family-oriented, and in the weekends leading up to December, Hilton Arcade will be transformed into an Oldham Christmas through the ages.

Actors will guide audiences through local traditions from every Saturday and Sunday from November 22 to December 7.

The town centre will take a step back in time for Victorian Weekend on November 29-30 when there will be shows, market stalls and traditional fairground rides as well as themed musicians and dancers.

For Winter Wonderland on December 6-7 there will be a temporary ice rink in Market Place where youngsters can skate with Christmas characters accompanied by brass bands and carol singers.

Oldhamers can do their last-minute Christmas shopping on December 13 amid brass bands and singers.