Selling Santa's grotto tickets in advance was the best idea ever.

That is according to Maryport Town Council's town clerk, Lisa Douglas.

The Maryport Chrisstmas lights were switched on last Saturday and, as usual, hundreds turned up for the event.

Marayport is known for the gifts children receive from Santa and in previous years the large queues wating for entry into Santa's Grotto has caused long waits and problems for pedestrians on Senhouse Street and for vehicles for children entering through the back of the Labour Club.

This year 300 tickets went on sale,each with a time on them.

Mrs Douglas said: "It worked so well. There were no queues and, most importantly, we did not run out of gift bags as has happened sometimes in the past."

The lights were switched on by Mayor, :Peter Kendall, two children from each of the schools in Maryport and Flimby with the help of Santa Claus himself.

The grotto and charity and local business stalls were in the Labour Club which has offered its premises for several years.

Entertainment was provided throughout the event from a stage on an Eric Nicholson wagon. Mr Nicholson also holds the contract for the Christmas lights.

Jason the Juggling Jester has become a favourite at the festival as are Imagination Parties .

Mr Kendall thanked the s two clerks, Mrs Douglas and Paul Bramley for the work they had done. He thanked the councillors who turned up on the day to help, the schools and individuals who had provided the afternoons entertainment, Round Table and Santa who manages to pay a visit to the event each year. 

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