Staines gets the Christmas buzz early

More than 400 hundred revellers attended both events, which saw two Santa's take part.

Claudette Curtis-Jenkins, who runs St Peter's Nursery said they raised £1,663 from the event, which saw craft making take place, a juggler who entertained a crowd, and cakes and a soup made by parents.

She said: "It was a wonderful day and the children had such a nice time. The parents of all the children put in such hard work to organise and decorate the hall."

The parade in Staines High Street saw real reindeer lead Santa in sleigh, but the event also saw men dressed up in fancy dress and a performance from Straines Brass Band.

Peter Miles, centre manager at The Elmsleigh Centre, said: "It was wonderful to see such a fantastic turn out for the Christmas Parade this year. Children's faces absolutely lit up when they saw Santa arrive on his sleigh with his reindeer; it was a really touching sight."

The big fat man then took up a place in Elmsleigh to meet children and give away reindeer antler hats.

He will be at the centre every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas, and kids can post their wish lists in a post box inside.

Also, on December 6 runners can dress up as the red man and run through Staines to raise money for charity in the annual Santa Sprint.

For more information, ring 01784 451499.