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The fourth Henleaze
Christmas Festival came up to expectations attracting huge crowds to
enjoy the entertainment, food of all sorts, and wide variety of
stalls.
The high winds earlier in the day, which had played havoc with
some of the stall canopies, died down in the evening much to the
relief of the organisers.
Henleaze Junior School choir started the evening from the
Festival Arena - a new feature - with a selection of festive songs.
And among the entertainment, for the first time, were girls from
Red Maids Junior School with hand bells and ocarinas.
The Lord Mayor Councillor Geoffrey Gollop, and the Mayoress, who
live locally, turned up to enjoy the evening.
There was more entertainment in the Bradbury Hall where a
constant flow of people thronged in and out as local dancers and
singers performed.
Among them were the Westbury Scottish Club dancers - another group
making their first appearance at the Festival.
The Salvation Army provided carols among the crowds as only they
can. The Cairns Road Baptist church Bethlehem Market Strolling
Players, added a Biblical touch to the evening as they joined the
throng.
Stalls were a big attraction with the the large crowd browsing the
wares which included pottery, craft work, jewellery, books, cakes
and cheeses.
There were long queues at the many food outlets offering everything
from burgers, crepes, hot chestnuts and mulled wine.
Shops staying open for the evening did a brisk trade. So did the
cafes on Henleaze Road.
Winner of the Best Dressed Window competition, run by The
Henleaze Society, was opticians Newsom and Davies with Just So
Balloons in second place and Bristol Barber Company third.
The winners received cups donated by local firm KP Trophies and
Badges.
Part of the proceeds from the Prize Draw - prizes donated by
neighbourhood businesses - will go to St Peter`s Hospice.
Co-ordinator Mike Drysdale said: "It was another great festival.
We are delighted so many people enjoyed the evening"
"I am grateful to the band of volunteers who make it possible".
But he adds: "We can always do with a few more if the Festival is to
continue to thrive".
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