NORTHWICH was transformed into a winter wonderland on Saturday for this year’s Christmas Extravaganza.

Festive cheer could be found at every turn as thousands filled the streets to enjoy this year’s event, which was organised by Northwich Town Council and the Northwich Business Improvement District (BID).

Free Christmas tractor and trailer rides were in high demand, while Christmas Crazy Golf and Donkey Rides kept children and adults entertained alongside Birds of Prey and fairground rides.

Father Christmas was of course in town for the day, while a whole host of Princesses, superheroes and stilt walkers ensured there was magic in the air for the kids in attendance.

Visitors were captivated by the reindeer and penguins and enjoyed perusing the many festive stalls run by some of the town’s businesses and exploring the Arts and Crafts tent.

The Northwich Teenage Market at the top of Witton Street also showed off a variety of festive wares.

Musical performances took place throughout the afternoon and a range of delicious food stalls provided tasty treats, while people enjoyed festive cookery demonstrations from chef Nigel Brown.

After the lantern parade, the Children’s Christmas competition winners saw their designs come to life before a firework display lit up the night sky in a spectacular climax.

Cllr Kevin Rimmer, mayor of Northwich, said: “I was delighted with how the day went and feels that the council, along with the BID, succeeded in making this year’s event the best yet.

“The town was absolutely packed with visitors and they helped create such a brilliant festive atmosphere – it was great to be a part of it.

“Once again both the Northwich Town Council and the BID have worked very hard to provide a mix of activities and events that everyone could enjoy and I feel we really captured that Christmas spirit.”

Jane Hough, Northwich BID manager, said: “Having Reindeer and Penguins alongside firm favourites added magic and intrigue to the day and everyone was so excited to see them in Northwich.

“It was great to see so many smiling faces in the town and that made all the planning and organisation of the event worthwhile. The only problem now is how to top the event next year.”