THIS CHRISTMAS

It’s time to make merry in Tewkesbury! Whatever your age, or interests, there’s plenty to entertain you in our lovely town this festive season.

Father Christmas switched on the yuletide lights last month, and he’s staying in Tewkesbury for a few more weeks before his deliveries begin.

Children can enjoy a fantastic indoor softplay area at Bumpyland on Saturday 17th December, and receive a gift from Santa when he drops into the venue at Tewkesbury Business Park. More details and tickets via the website www.bumpyland softplay.co.uk

Santa can also be visited during his annual trip to Tewkesbury Museum in Barton Street. Several dates available - see page 55 for more details.

Snow White’s classic fairy tale is brought up to date at The Roses Theatre panto, which is showing until the end of December. Hansel and Gretel visit Twyning 1st-3rd December (tickets from The Village Inn) and there is a Serenity Winter Concert at St Nicholas, Ashchurch, on Saturday 17th December. Handel’s Messiah is also being performed in Tewkesbury Abbey on the same evening - tickets on sale at the Abbey Shop.

In the Watson Hall on Sunday 18th December, you can join the family extravaganza The Ice Princess with an afternoon tea, songs, activities and games, with visits from special characters. The party runs from 2pm to 5pm.

For over 45 years, Pamington Farm Christmas Tree Centre has been selling locally-grown, fresh cut trees to the public. On Saturday 3rd December this year, The Black Farmer (Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones MBE) will be having a stall at the farm too. For more details visit pamingtonfarmchristmastrees.co.uk

There’s something to get steamed up about over at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway in December. There’s a Carol Singing Special on Saturday 10th December, and the Mince Pie trains will be running December 27th-2nd January. Details www.gwsr.com. If railways are your thing, then pop over the Ashmolean Museum in Broadway where you’’ll enjoy the ‘journey through steam’ exhibition.

Our excellent wide range of restaurants, eateries and pubs has recently increased with the re-launch of the Teddington Hands inn. The great news is that the historic Black Bear’s opening is imminent, after a long period of careful and sensitive restoration.

See inside this issue for lots more events to enjoy. Happy Christmas!