Victorian theme set to reign once more

It’s set to include some exciting new features this year –but the organisers need support to ensure it is a success.

Two fund-raising events are planned for next month and representatives of all businesses in the town are being encouraged to dress up in period costume for the Festival, which is scheduled for the weekend of December 2 and 3.

Organisers’ spokesman Alison Levi said: “This year, there will be an outdoor Christmas market in the car park outside Santander bank and the blue domes in The Square will host various stalls for charitable causes such as the lifeboats, Home-Start and cat rescue.

“The Mayor of Fylde, Coun John Singleton, is supporting us with the annual mayor’s Christmas window display to be Victorian-themed for the first time and he is also due to open the Festival as a guest in the Palace rooms, which is where we will have craft stalls, choirs, hand bell ringing and of course Father Christmas.

“The weekend coincides with Small Business Saturday, a nationwide event on December 2 and the Festival is a wonderful way to encourage extra people into town.

“All businesses in St Annes are encouraged to dress up in Victorian outfits and put on something in their store that supports the theme.”

The fund-raising events – a Simon and Garfunkel celebration at St Annes Palace on November 11 and a murder-mystery evening at Ashton Gardens Pavilion on November 25 – will help pay for activities around town such as barrel organs, small fairground rides and a horse and carriage.

Alison added: “We are looking forward to a great weekend.”

Details of tickets for the fund-raising events from (01253) 782339 or 07796 092571