Christmas at Westwood Cross will launch in style on Saturday, November 21, with a wealth of entertainment for all the family, a colourful seasonal parade and the Big Switch On of the Christmas lights.

“It’s going to be the biggest and liveliest start to Christmas ever at Westwood Cross,” said shopping centre marketing manager Tracie Stevens.

“The entertainment, including songs from Christmas shows, dancing displays and games with opportunities to win prizes, will start at 2.30pm on the main stage near the Sundial.

“Then we will have our grand Christmas parade, led by Santa of course. This year’s parade will feature the Bloco Fogo steel drums and whistles samba band, everyone’s favourite characters from Peter Pan and Oliver plus key local organisations such as theatre and dance schools, the Dickens Festival, Broadstairs Victorians, the Rotary Club and St Peter’s Village Tour. “Representatives of the Oasis domestic abuse charity will add to the atmosphere walking by candlelight.

“And we are delighted that popular local radio presenter Johnny Lewis will be leading the big countdown to the Christmas lights switching on.”

During the day there will be in-store collections to raise funds for Children in Need.

Meanwhile, from midday, young visitors to Westwood Cross will be able to visit Santa in his Grotto. Santa will be in residence throughout the run-up to Christmas.

And the Westwood Cross Christmas Market will be open for business from Monday, November 23.

“Seventeen traditional-style wooden stalls will be positioned throughout the centre with lots of unusual seasonal gifts and craftwork.

“The contents of the stalls will be changing weekly to ensure that our shoppers can choose special and unusual gifts for friends and family from the widest selection possible,” said Ms Stevens.

For further information, visit www.westwoodx.co.uk or tel: 01843 867273.