Hereford Times:

It’s the official start of Christmas at Old Market Hereford. On Sunday, November 17 the centre celebrated with a day of festive lights, Lego and more!

Old Market teamed up with Santa and Mrs Claus to prepare a special welcome for shoppers of all ages, with a host of free activities on offer between 11am and 4pm.

The ‘Merry Brickmas’ Lego station, where visitors could compete to create their most Christmassy construction for a chance to win a range of prizes, including discounted tickets to the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Birmingham. 

Merry music was provided by the roaming big brass band performing everyone’s festive favourites, while Santa will be spreading his Christmas cheer as he greets shoppers to find out what’s on their Christmas lists.

The centre’s Christmas lights were officially switched on at 4.30pm, marking the start of the festive season.

To make the shopping trips even easier, from November 20, visitors can park at Old Market for free after 4pm every Wednesday and take advantage of late-night shopping until 8pm at selected stores. The multi-storey car park is now fully open again following the recent essential maintenance work.

Alan Anderson, centre manager at Old Market, said: “Christmas is just around the corner and we were pleased to kick the festive season off in style with our free event for all of the family.

“Meeting Santa and seeing the lights switched on, the event marked the start of our favourite time of the year at Old Market.

“We love helping our customers discover the best gifts for their loved ones, right up until the last-minute on Christmas Eve.

“Old Market has so much to offer that we’re sure we can help you tick off everyone on your Christmas list.”

For further information, go to: www.oldmarkethereford.co.uk