EXCITED families gathered in Uxbridge town centre on Sunday to start the celebrations for Christmas – and to watch Celebrity Big Brother winner Ryan Thomas turn on the lights.
intu Uxbridge and The Pavilions came alive as festive characters roamed the malls and put smiles on faces.
At 4pm, the annual parade drew onlookers to follow Santa, the Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr John Morgan, giant reindeer and festive characters as they led a procession through the town and to the stage.
Actor Ryan Thomas, who is also performing in Peter Pan at the Beck Theatre pantomime, started the countdown and helped light up Uxbridge town centre.
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From this Saturday (24), the Christmas Experience will return. With four festive zones – the Snow Zone, Tree Zone, Gingerbread House and Christmas Workshop – and a snow display every 15 minutes, intu Uxbridge will be the centre of attraction.
Children can collect a sticker at each zone, before heading to Elf Passport Control at the Christmas Workshop to meet and have a selfie with Santa.
They will receive a free gift, make Christmas cards and 3D snowflakes to hang on the Christmas tree.
All profits go to HALO Children’s Foundation, intu Uxbridge’s nominated charity partner, which supports children and their families after the loss of a loved one.
Book a Santa slot and see opening times at www.intu.co.uk/uxbridge/events
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