Visitors flocked to Victoria Park in the Appleton Ward, for Halton Borough Council’s Panto in the Park event, with about 5,000 estimated to have braved the cold.

Princess Aurora arrived at the bandstand in a glittering glass carriage with Santa himself. She was welcomed by Mayor Alan Lowe and Mayoress Cllr Joan Lowe and competition winner Sam Bourque and her daugher, who won a Facebook competition.

Cast members gave sneak previews of a couple of the songs from the show and mingled with the crowd for ‘selfies’ and chat.

The rest of the afternoon was filled with the sights and sounds of Christmas. Among the free entertainment was the ever popular free Santa’s grotto.

There was FREE donkey rides, local choir, crafts, face painting, children’s entertainment, falconry and much, much, more

The park also played host to the annual Halton Haven Santa Dash starting at 11am prior to the main event. Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Events, Cllr Eddie Jones, said: “The Council organises seasonal activities in order to help create a true festive spirit .

“Christmas is a time when communities come together so it will be great to see so many local people coming out to participate in and enjoy the atmosphere of this free event .

“So many happy faces and obvious community cohesion makes all of our effort in putting the event together very worthwhile.”

Heading the cast this year is Crissy Rock, star of TV’s Benidorm and I’m A Celebrity as Fairy Nuff. Rebecca Lake, returns by popular request as Princess Aurora and local favourite Andrew Curphey is back as Chester the Jester.

Other principal dancers already announced are Lindsey Alexander, Hollie Glossop and Jamie Luke – All with impeccable credentials.

Tickets for the Brindley pantomime are priced Children £16, Adults £22, Family Ticket £66 (2 adults, 2 children), Groups 20 plus £17, Schools £11 (One teacher in 15 goes free, no booking fee) from www.thebrindley.org.uk and the box office on 0151 907 8360

There is a British Sign Language Performance on Friday 29 December at 5pm and a Relaxed Performance on Sunday 7 January at 1pm. You can contact the box office on 0151 907 8360 or e mail thebrindley@halton.gov.uk if you need further information regarding these performances.

Box Office: 0151 907 8360 Book Online: www.thebrindley.org.uk

SLEEPING BEAUTY presented by Polka Dot Pantomimes runs from 11 December – 14 January (See website for all show dates and times)