Musical treat for Christmas shoppers

Oldham town centre’s Christmas shopping campaign will have a musical touch this weekend.

Alongside appearances from children’s entertainers, costumed characters and musicians, the village will be visited by a jazz band on Saturday and Denton Brass Band on Sunday.

Town crier Barry McQueen, voice of Blackpool, will also be in fine voice to cheer the crowds with his festive proclamations.

As well as the new fairytale-themed Santa’s Festive Village and undercover artificial ice-rink, shoppers can also visit the Christmas Tree Festival at Oldham Parish Church.

The interior is filled with seasonal colour —each tree representing many of the borough’s good causes and local organisations. The display is free to browse daily from 10am to 6pm (noon to 6pm on Sunday).

Jackie Stanton, deputy leader of Oldham Council, said: “The new Christmas Tree Festival is a marvellous way of reminding people about the true spirit of Christmas and the amazing work done throughout the year by a range of local organisations. We have been absolutely delighted with the response to our new Festive Village, which runs until December 13.

“The feedback has been very positive. It has been particularly pleasing to learn that many of the shoppers are visiting from outside the borough.”