Santa Claus is coming to town for Shipston's Victorian Evening

Father Christmas was so impressed with the turnout of well-behaved boys and girls last year that he’s booked a bigger and better grotto for this year’s Victorian Evening. At the special request of the man in red, Peter Clarke has agreed to hand over the keys to its office to allow Shipston Rotary – and Santa’s elves – to prepare for a busy night.

But it’s not just Father Christmas who will be on hand to entertain children and their families on 5th December. 

For the first time, there will be a carousel offering rides for youngsters, while Taste of the Country will be offering free gingerbread character icing in their shop throughout the event. Street entertainment will include The Shout Choir, Stilt Walkers, Shipston Town Band and a Ukulele Band, while those wishing for a festive makeover can head to the Face Painter stall for a new look. 

Shops and Businesses in the town will be participating in the ‘Christmas Best Dressed Window’ competition, while children from Shipston Primary School will sing carols to get everyone in the festive mood.

Shipston Rotarian, Chris Cockell, said: “The Rotary Victorian Evening has become an integral part of the Shipston-on-Stour calendar and we’re determined to ensure everyone who attends has a great time. Our stalls were booked in record time this year and we’ve had some great support from local businesses so we’re confident this year’s Victorian Evening will be the best yet. 

“Shipston’s Victorian evening is designed to be fun for all the family, good for local shops and businesses and an important part of the fund raising plans of many local charities and good causes. We look forward to welcoming as many people as possible on the night.”

The event takes place from 6pm to 8pm.