Christmas is a time to bring the community together and this year Northampton did just that.
From affordable grottos enabling families to visit Santa who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to, to Christmas displays in aid of deserving charities, everyone has pulled together.
This year has also seen two Christmas celebrations for your furry friends, with adorable pictures shared over recent weeks on the Chronicle & Echo website.
Take a moment to appreciate what has taken place over the last two months, and the selfless individuals who have gone above and beyond to make this a special time of year for all.
Enjoy your round up of 13 wholesome Christmas activities that took place across Northampton to celebrate the festive season…
5. Charity Christmas display in winter wonderland home returned for tenth year
It was a “non-stop” weekend for an annual charity Christmas display, described by organiser Ann Williams as the “best ever” over the last decade it has run for. Visitors were invited to Ann’s “winter wonderland” home on December 16 and 17, which she is known for decorating in Lumbertubs Lane. This year was in aid of PHAB, which supports social activities and sports for children and adults nationally. Photo: Chris Flavin-Sweeney
6. Affordable grotto hosted to help families across Northampton and in aid of charity
Emily and Dirk Campling were praised for hosting a Christmas grotto from their home, for families who might not have otherwise had the opportunity to visit Santa. They opened their home in Far Cotton to the public on December 9, with around 80 visitors helping them raise £400 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice. Emily’s sister Anika Errington wanted to let the couple know just how appreciated they are by the community. Photo: Anika Errington
7. The King Billy’s Christmas present run
The King Billy’s Christmas present run, on December 16, smashed last year’s fundraising total – and 30 bikers delivered presents to young people at a children’s home in the run up to the big day. A total of £1,860 was raised, helping children who would otherwise not receive any Christmas presents. Photo: Andy Simons
8. ‘Santa Paws Grotto’ at Teddy’s Dog Care
A sold-out Christmas event saw 100 dogs enter the ‘Santa Paws Grotto’ in the winter wonderland at Teddy’s Dog Care, in Newport Pagnell Road. The business’ second Christmas event was bigger and better than last year, with more attractions including a giant snow globe for owners to go inside with their furry friends. Alongside getting a present from Santa’s grotto, there were many Instagrammable scenes to make the most of. Photo: Kirsty Edmonds