What a cracker!

The annual event was held last Saturday evening with villagers enjoying a carol concert, sung by the choir at Hook Junior School, as well as performances from the Salvation Army band, and a live nativity scene.

The village was illuminated with festive decorations with many shops and pubs putting on free nibbles and tipples. Station Road was partially closed throughout the event and there was even a visit from Father Christmas, who handed out gifts to children in his grotto, while Jack Frost was also seen wandering around the village.

Among the visitors was 25-year-old Simon Brown, of Compton Close, Hook. He said: “We come to this event every year. It’s nice to start the Christmas season with a big bash like this. It’s a bit strange to see the roads closed and the shops open late, but everyone gets together and has fun.”

Organisers were delighted with the turn- out, considering that last year’s event was cancelled because of bad weather.

Bernice Wall, one of the organisers, said as many as 3,000 people enjoyed the festivities. She told The Gazette: “It was a fantastic evening, and everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves. We really look forward to this event as it is nice to start the Christmas period by bringing the village together.”

Stalls selling home-made cakes, crafts and refreshments were set up for those looking for a Christmas bargain.

It was also a chance for local businesses to meet and greet customers. Karen Macleod, a senior travel consultant at Toucan Travel, in Grand Parade, said: “It is a really good way for the whole community to get into the spirit of Christmas. All the shops and businesses should take part and get to know everyone, and feel part of the community.”