Tenby hosted its three-day winter festival at the weekend.

An indoor ice-rink, carol singing, Christmas market and after-dark carnival parade were all included in the weekend's entertainment.

And among the special guests was Father Christmas who took time out of his busy schedule to pay a visit to the town.

Riding in his sleigh, he also took part in the parade, which was led by Milford Haven Town Band.

Afterwards, Clr. Mrs. Christine Brown, one of the organisers, said: "I can only say that I thought the weekend events went very well for a first attempt; the things that did not come up to scratch can be worked on for next year.

"Everyone I spoke to in the town was delighted with the community spirit of the events; the business community in the centre of Tenby were very pleased with the amount of people the market drew into the town and there was a very festive spirit between all the stallholders and their many customers.

"With regard to the carnival, the turnout was very disappointing. However, those who did take part were full of fun and enjoyed themselves. Prizes of free ice skating were given to all who took part and they were thanked for the effort they made to enter.

"The carnival will have to be worked on next year too!"

Mayor of Tenby, Clr. Mrs. Julie Evans, joined in the festivities too and added: "On the whole, the first joint winter festival was a success and can now be developed and improved for future years. On behalf of the Town Council, I would like to thank everyone who supported the event."

Also upbeat about the event was chairman of Tenby Chamber of Trade and Tourism, Chris Osborne.

"The set up (and dismantling) crew were impressive as a demonstration of wide community support for the festival," he said.

"The number of people in Tenby over the weekend showed an increase, the interest they showed around the stalls and later to view the passing carnival a positive response to Tenby's efforts to appeal to the pre-Christmas purchasing power.

"All in all, it was an encouraging foundation on which to build, not least because of the collaboration between Tenby Chamber of Trade and Tourism, Tenby District Lions Club and Tenby Town Council. Let's hope such joint working bodes well for more events to attract more people to Tenby throughout the year."

Ice-rink was fun for all ages

All Lions wish to thank members of the public who attended the synthetic ice-rink last weekend. It was good to see so many people of all ages having fun!

Santa had an enjoyable time in his Grotto and a super raffle took place also. The Lions wish to thank the following individuals and businesses who donated gifts for the raffle: Folly Farm, Morris Bros, T. P. Hughes, Country Kitchen, Fecci Fish and Chip Shop, Christine Brown, Countrywide Hampers, L. G. and Carol Wilton. Your support is appreciated

Additional thanks go to Country Kitchen for running the café and to sponsors Tenby Town Council and Tenby Chamber of Trade and Tourism.

May we take this opportunity of wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

With all good wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Cydu Dymunicidau Da ar Gyfer y Nadolig a'r Fhoyddyn Newydd.