It was a joyous if, ultimately, damp Christmas Switch-On for Milford & Makeney on Friday, November 27.
The event began in the warmth of the Primary School.
Santa and his little helper plus the Mayor of Belper, Cllr Dan Booth and Town Crier Terry Porter all posed with the schoolchildren who then regaled us with three festive songs, warmly applauded by proud parents and friends.
Then it was out into the night for the short walk down to the triangle.
Santa and the Mayor pressed the plunger and switched on the lights of Milford & Makeney’s tree.
It was as if Santa had switched on the rain because moments later the heavens opened and those who hadn’t already gone inside the Social Club and stayed awhile to admire the tree and savour the moment got drenched in a sudden shower.
The Social Club was packed.
As the drink flowed and the free mince pies were devoured, Santa reappeared.
The rain had clearly done strange things to his hair as it appeared to have grown, with giant locks hanging down either side of his face.
The hairy Santa talked to excited children and handed them presents while the grown-ups dried off and enjoyed a drink in a packed, atmospheric lounge.
