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Thursday, December 04, 2008, 09:10
People young and old wrapped up warm and headed for the market square, the central point of a packed festive programme with something for everyone.
Bassetlaw Hospice's charity market provided ample inspiration for Christmas gifts and had a steady string of visitors all day.
On sale were decorations, home-made edible treats and gifts for every age, with a good range of stocking fillers at reasonable prices.
The evening's events kicked off with Sturton le Steeple Primary School's lantern procession, led by Santa in his sleigh.
The sleigh was pulled by live reindeer - a new addition to the event this year and a real highlight.
Following the procession members of the public could meet and feed the reindeer and find out more about them.
They were from Berkshire's Family Adventure Farm, which gives a lifelong home to rescue animals.
The reindeer have contact with the public all year round at the farm, and events like this helps fund their care. The sleigh they were pulling was light work for their muscular bodies - it is usually pulled by husky dogs.
Over on the market square stage, Sutton-cum-Lound Primary School pupils performed a Nativity play and Carr Hill Primary School pupils entertained with carols, accompanied by Worksop Miner's Welfare Brass Band.
Bassetlaw District Council chairman David Hare and Retford Town Mayor Wendy Quigley gave their Christmas messages, followed by prayers by Rev Tony Walker, before Beijing Paralympic rugby star Troye Collins gave inspirational words to the crowd about following their dreams.
Drawing on his own experiences, he said: "When I was a boy I dreamt of going to the Olympics. You can achieve whatever you want to do."
There were cheers from the children - covered in snow-spray - when the lights came on at 7pm.
In all the event was a fun, safe night enjoyed by everyone.
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