YOUNGSTERS have been getting creative – and learning traditional skills - ahead of the first ever Bridport Christmas Cheer lantern parade.

The event is taking place on Wednesday, December 6 and the town council is offering free workshops to schools and community groups to work alongside an artist and explore traditional lantern making skills that are used all over the world.

The lanterns made at the workshops will be showcased at the Christmas Cheer which, this year, involves an illuminated procession for the first time. The workshops are already well underway but there is still time to get involved, says community artist Mickey Bonome.

''Last week we were working with some year 6 pupils from St Mary’s School in Bridport, who made some beautiful lanterns, each one totally unique. Working to the theme of Winter, we had lanterns being made in the form of dancing ladies, wolves, presents, Christmas trees, stars and many more. It is really quite an achievement to design, and fully create a withy lantern in such a short space of time. The children were brilliant and so creative.

“We look forward to seeing all the participating schools and community groups lanterns on December 6 at the procession at Bridport Christmas Cheer. 

“The procession will lead the very special guest Father Christmas, who will be stopping everything to pop into town, where he will be happy to see the children of the town personally.”

The procession will leave from East Street Car Park at 5.30pm and will lead Father Christmas into Bucky Doo Square. Participants in the parade will meet at 5 to light up their creations and be ready to have some fun.

If you haven’t had the chance to make lanterns with Mickey at your school or group, there are workshops for families on November 18 from 10am to 12pm and one for grandparents and their grandchildren on November 25 from 10am to 12 pm. Both workshops are at Bridport Town Hall.

There is a small charge of £3 for each lantern to go towards costs. Each participant will be issued with an invitation and details of the procession. Book your space by calling 01460 432 858.