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Days out
Conrad Astley16/12/2005
SANTA Claus and steam trains - it doesn't get much better than
that if you're a child.
A family day out is being organised on the East Lancashire
Railway.
Santa will be visiting the special steam-hauled trains, running
from Bury to Ramsbottom and back, presenting every child with a
Christmas gift, while giving sherry and mince pies to adults.
The trains leave Bolton Street station in Bury six times a day on
Saturday, Sunday and Thursday, as well as next Friday (December 23)
and Christmas Eve.
Tickets cost £9.50 for adults, and £8.50 for children.
However, it is essential to book ahead by calling 764 7790 or
visiting
www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk
NEGOTIATING pre-Christmas queues of traffic at the Trafford
Centre may not be everyone's idea of fun, but store bosses have
organised events to make the visit more appealing.
There will be a series of festive musical performances in the mall,
with the Poynton Commodores performing on Peel Avenue until 4pm on
Saturday and Sunday, and the Salvation Army giving renditions there
on Monday night.
The Sale Handbell Ringers will be at the South Dome on Wednesday
evening, while the Salvation Army will be back on Thursday
evening.
There will also be a series of festive activities at the John Lewis
store, with a cracker making demonstration in the stationery
department today (Friday), a seasonal cookery demonstration on
Saturday, and face painting and balloon modelling for youngsters on
December 23.
Santa's grotto is open at the centre every day until Christmas Eve,
with children having the opportunity to visit Father Christmas,
receive a gift or have a photograph taken with him.
The grotto, near The Orient's cinema, is open until 9pm
Monday to Friday, until 8pm on Saturday, 6pm on Sunday, and 5pm on
Christmas Eve.
YOUNGSTERS can learn how to make their own Christmas decorations
during a workshop next week.
Experts at the People's History Museum will be demonstrating how to
make paper lanterns or "stained glass" window hangings.
The workshop, which costs £1 per person and is suitable for
all ages, is being held from 1.30-3.30pm next Wednesday (December
21). Call the Bridge Street museum on 839 6061.
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