IT WAS, my privilege to attend two of Axbridge's annual Christmas events: the Senior Citizens' Christmas Dinner and Father Christmas in the Square. Both events were superb. My wife and I were guests at the Senior Citizens' Christmas Dinner by virtue of w

IT WAS, my privilege to attend two of Axbridge's annual Christmas events: the Senior Citizens' Christmas Dinner and Father Christmas in the Square. Both events were superb. My wife and I were guests at the Senior Citizens' Christmas Dinner by virtue of wearing the 'civic bling' and not because of date of birth and it was a real treat. The fact that our Rector, the Reverend Tim Hawkings, and I both had to 'sing for our supper' made it even more fun.Father Christmas in the Square can only be described as a joyful delight. As one of the old chap's helpers I was fortunate to see the expressions of happiness and wonder on the faces of the children. The weather was perfect, Father Christmas' sleigh was better than ever and my only complaint was the roast pork ran out before I could get there. At both events we were led in prayer by the Reverend Tim Hawkings, which blessed us with the real Christian meaning of our celebrations.I want to thank the committees and helpers whose efforts made the events run so well, the Parochial Charities and the Jack Todd Fund trustees for their generous support and John Denbee for auctioning that first slice of pork. It is real joy to live in a community which knows how to celebrate Christmas. These two events included every resident in the town from the youngest to the oldest. Axbridge is a 'politically-correct free zone'. Long may it enjoy that status and continue to enjoy Christmas.BARRY HAMBLINMayor of Axbridge