HUNDREDS of people flocked to Knutsford over the weekend to mark the beginning of the Christmas season, catch a glimpse of Santa and his reindeer and sample some festive treats.

The Christmas Weekend proved a sparkling success with an array of Yuletide delights, from spicy mulled wine to tasty gingerbread men, and carol singers to thrilling fairground rides.

Saturday night was the two-day event’s highlight as special guest Crystal Palace footballer Aaron Wilbraham, who grew up in Knutsford, switched on the town’s Christmas lights to the sound of a cheering crowd.

Market organiser Adam Keppel-Garner said: “I was delighted by the fantastic turnout for both the Switch On and Christmas Markets. We aim to make the Christmas events that bit more special each year and we really hope that visitors enjoyed themselves.”

On Saturday, Christmas Market visitors were also in with a chance of winning the Best of the Market hamper filled with items donating by the market traders.

The hamper, worth over £300 featured a fantastic range of items including a framed art print, bottle of Hunters Gin, sparkling Vouvray wine, a teapot and knitted cosy, a tea gift pack, a Knutsford mug, three bottles of local beer, a large hamper, a bracelet and much more from a bottle of sloe gin and chocolate bars to cheese and locally produced jam and honey.

The hamper was won by Tabley Lane resident Liz Edwards who, upon being told she had won, said: "I am overjoyed; I cannot believe it - I never win raffles".

Over £335 was raised for the Mayoral Charities, which are the Knutsford Lions and Cheshire Search and Rescue.

Town Mayor Barbara Coan said "I am delighted by the amount raised for my charities and thank everyone who bought a ticket as well as the Councillors who gave their time selling the tickets at the market."

A street collection raised an additional £65 bringing the total raised charities to £400.

"The generosity of our stallholders was second to none. Nearly everyone gave an item towards the hamper and they all gave incredibly generously,” organiser Adam said.

“We are always looking for feedback on our events, suggestions for improvements or even ideas for new town events so if anyone has anything to contribute please get in touch.”

Visit knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk to have your say on future events.