SANTA and his reindeer paid a visit to a Basingstoke shopping centre on Sunday, as thousands of people gathered to watch the festive parade.

Pulled on a sleigh by a family of four adults and two baby reindeer, Father Christmas and Mrs Christmas were welcomed into The Malls by cheers from a large crowd as festive tunes belted out from loud speakers.

They were joined by a host of characters in the parade, including Santa's helpers, a man on stilts and a giant snowman.

The annual event saw more than 34,000 people attend throughout the day, making it the most successful yet.

The six reindeer travelled all the way from the Cairngorm in Scotland for the popular annual event.

Children were able to chat to Father Christmas and give him their letters, and the best ones will be awarded prizes in different age categories.

Volunteers from Shopmobility gave out balloons, and there were several stalls selling food including roasted chestnuts and others offering a range of Christmas gifts.

Sue Harris, property administrator and events coordinator for The Malls, said: "It was absolutely packed. It's traditional and brings children's attention back to what Christmas is about."

The reindeer visit on Sunday was the second Christmas themed event to be held in The Malls.

On Friday the shopping centre hosted its annual Christmas lights switch-on when The Anvil's pantomime star Dame Trott, accompanied by Daisy the Cow from Jack and the Beanstalk, pushed the button to turn on the lights following a countdown in beans.

Those attending joined in with carols by the Salvation Army, and enjoyed a performance of Ding Dong Merrily on High by children from Oakridge Junior School.

The event raised money for St Michael's Hospice, which will be added to the £4,000 already raised by The Malls this year.

  • See more pictures on page 48 of today's Gazette