CHRISTMAS starts with a bang in Cheddar this month when the festive night returns to the picturesque village.
CHRISTMAS starts with a bang in Cheddar this month when the festive night returns to the picturesque village.
In keeping with tradition, a 'Whoopa Rocket' will be launched from St Andrew's Church at 6pm tomorrow (Fri) following carol singing, to kick of the festive fun.
Shops, cafes and pubs throughout Cheddar will be open late and Christmas trees around the village will light up streets.
Santa has taken time out of his busy schedule to give out toys in Gough's Cave in the gorge and will be working late to give him chance to meet all the children.
Pig roasts will fill the tummies of hungry visits at The Bath Arms in Bath Street and The Riverside Inn in Cliff Street and free chilli will be served at Cox's Mill in The Cliffs.
The air will be filled with musical treats for the ears as The RAFA Band plays at Cheddar Methodist Church while The Burtle Band will play some Christmas treats outside the tourist information centre.
Markets and rides will be held in Cliff Street car park and there will be the chance to enter the big prize tomobla organised by Cheddar Parish Council with prizes from the village's generous traders.
Edinburgh Woollen Mill and lots of other shops will be giving out mince pies, mulled wine and sherry.
While the adults enjoy a glass or two of Christmas 'spirit', children are encouraged to wear fancy dress and carry candles and touches to light up the winter evening.
This year's guest of honour, St Andrew's Church vicar Victor Daley will be busy walking around the village to give a prize to the best Christmas lights on the outside of a shop or house.
This year is the first time there will be a Cheddar Christmas Lights Competition and it is open to all residents. The Challenge Cup, donated by the Rotary Club of Mendip will go to the house with the best decoration and lights.
Parking will be available in the marked areas on our 'cut out and keep' map but visitors should be aware that traffic will be heavier than usual and Cliff Street car park and Cliff Street will be closed to vehicles.
*To send us your pictures of Cheddar Festive Night log on to www.thewestonmercury.co.uk
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