WINDERMERE and Bowness was full of festive cheer at the weekend as the seventh annual Christmas Light Switch-on spectacular attracted thousands to the town.
 

The day began with the sold out Seeking Santa Cruise, aboard a Windermere Lake Cruises Steamer, for a magical sail and a festive sing-a-long which saw children entertained by Peter Rabbit and ‘Beatrix Potter’ reading ‘A Winters Tale’ before Santa emptied his sack full of gifts.
 

On their return to Bowness Santa and his elf rode off in style round Bowness courtesy of the Booths horse and carriage.
 

The Windermere and Bowness Community Choir performed an arrangement of tunes created especially for the evening before the Kookaburra All Stars drumming heralded the arrival of Santa on his Sleigh.
 

Thousands of people turned out to enjoy traditional mulled wine and mince pies, hot food and sweets on offer throughout the evening.
 

The excitement was topped by the Windermere Sparkle Parade which saw Santa light up the night’s sky before the grand firework finale in Queens Park.
 

Sharon Wright, Chair of Windermere and Bowness Winter Lights committee said: “It is wonderful to see the community to come together for one evening to celebrate the start of the festive season.
 

“We very much value the financial and physical support of the local residents to make Parade happen. All profits from the Cruises are used to keep the evening event free for all to enjoy.
 

"We have made many improvements to the lights and are extremely grateful to businesses who have already donated this year who along with Grant giving bodies continue to make our towns light up.”
 

For more information about the Windermere and Bowness Winter Lights go to www.windermerewinterlights.org