Winter Wonderland

 Animals stole the show at the opening of town centre Christmas events in Wythenshawe as children were encouraged to get close to the reindeer, which will be back in the mall again on 20th December, along with Husky Dogs.

Animals of a different kind took shape over at Forum Square, where chainsaw artist, Mick Burns, intricately carved a large robin out of a metre and a half of solid tree trunk while amazed visitors looked on. The sculpture is being donated to the Forum Nursery, where the children will eventually be able to paint it.

The events programme was officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Mavis Smitheman who said, “Christmas is all about friendship and community spirit and the people of Wythenshawe have given me such a warm welcome . I’ve had a wonderful time, talking to people and enjoying all the fun activities and entertainments. It’s been the perfect start to the Christmas season”.

Visitors are invited to enjoy a varied timetable of Christmas activities, events and shopping, right up to 23rd December. Most activities are free.
Bjorn, an extremely life-like polar bear visits on Monday 22nd and 23rd December. When reindeer make another appearance as the subject of an ice sculpture demonstration.

Families looking for Christmas bargains will be spoilt for choice at Wythenshawe Christmas Market, which will be open on Friday 19th, Saturday 20th and Tuesday 23rd December.

The market offers everything from hot food and drinks, including non-alcoholic gluhwein, hot carvery and winter favourites such as hotpot, and fresh vegetables for the Christmas dinner, to fantastic gifts and fashion accessories. There’s holly and mistletoe to decorate your home and Christmas partywear and perfume to make you feel a million dollars. There are also traditional sweets and confectionary and much much more.

Councillor Paul Andrews, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services at Manchester City Council said: “Wythenshawe Christmas market offers everything for those shopping for the festive season. The market offers great value for money and will help all our hard-earned cash stretch further this Christmas so we can all get on with enjoying ourselves. As part of Wythenshawe’s festive programme it is a unique shopping experience that families can enjoy and is a pleasant alternative to the hectic supermarket aisles.”