CHRISTMAS bells were jingling in Stratton on Friday as the annual fair brought a spot of festive cheer to the parish.

Families from all across Swindon turned up to enjoy a lively afternoon of Yuletide fun as they took part in a range of different activities from ice skating to crafting.

Excitable kids visited the magical winter wonderland grotto, fed the reindeer and told Father Christmas what gifts they would like to receive this year.

Throughout the day there was a variety of dramatic performances from local school children as well as The Big Sing Thing, plus a fabulous line up of craft stalls selling handmade festive treats.

The Murray family had made the short journey from North Swindon to enjoy the festivities.

Dad Sean, 37, said: “We’ve had a really good time so far, it’s been great.

“We always like coming to things like this because it’s great for the kids.

"Top marks go to everyone who has organised it because they’ve done a really great job.”

Daughter Hannah, aged nine, said: “I loved making things on the craft table and seeing Santa and his reindeer. I hope we can come again next year.”

This year the parish council is very proud to be supporting children’s leukaemia charity CALM, and for a small donation visitors were able to make presents or even their very own reindeer food for putting out on Christmas Eve.

There was even an ice rink that gave lots of people the chance to get their skates on for CALM. The ice rink went up on Friday and families went along to Grange Leisure throughout the weekend to put their skating skills to the test.

Clive Bradshaw, 68, from central Swindon, said: “It has been great so far. Things like this always bring out the community spirit in everyone.

“I don’t think ice skating is my sort of thing - maybe in my younger days. But it’s good to see the kids having a good time - it’s what Christmas is all about.”

George Scarrott’s Fun Fair also provided small rides for all the family to enjoy before or after their ice skating and hot food was on sale throughout the day to ensure there were no rumbling stomachs.