There was plenty of Christmas cheer to go around as a town welcomed the festive season.


Crowds flocked to Bridport town centre last night to celebrate the annual Christmas Cheer event.


The event kicked off with, for the first time, a lantern parade which featured the colourful creations of children from in and around the Bridport area. 


Late night shopping was accompanied by carol singing from local schools, Santa’s Grotto, dance performances outside Bridport Antiques and more than 100 stalls offering food, drink, art and crafts along West, East and South Street as well as outside the Electric Palace, town hall and arts centre. 


Bridport mayor Anne Rickard says she is proud of this year’s Cheer, and that the event is getting ‘bigger and better’ each year.


“The whole town comes alive and everyone comes to visit us – it’s great,” she said.

“I couldn’t wait to see the children with their lanterns and I’m pleased so many shops and local businesses took part in the window competition. 


“It’s a vibrant and busy evening where you can have a good laugh and a great atmosphere; a very festive evening. 


“It takes a long time to put together and everyone works so hard to put it together. It’s been amazing.”