WITH the advent period fast approaching, Christmas in Crewe will begin later this month.

Residents are being urged to come along from 4pm on November 27 to see sparkling performances from the Ruskin Blue Bin Drummers and The Funky Choir.

There will also be Santa’s Christmas Parade starting at the market centre flanked by the Smarter Ways to Travel ‘Bright Lights Cyclists’.

Clr Pam Minshall, mayor of Crewe, will then make her way to the market square to see the lights switch on at 6.30pm followed by a closing fireworks display from Blitz Fireworks.

Crewe Town Council has teamed up with a number of groups to bring a festive feel to the town centre this Christmas time.

Each Thursday evening during late night shopping, the air will be filled with yuletide sounds thanks to support from The Box and Colossus Recordings, while on Saturday, December 6, Churches Together in Crewe will be holding its annual nativity parade accompanied by carols performed by Audley Brass Band.

On December 7, the town centre will be filled with a new specialist Christmas market, with the Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Choir performing six days later in December 13.

Nantwich Concert Band will be in town on December 20 and the mayor will hold a carol service on the Municipal Square led by Crewe Male Voice Choir.

Last Posts will be sounded on the Municipal Square at 6pm on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve to mark the Christmas Truce in 1914.

Clr Pam Minshall, mayor of Crewe, said: "I am really excited about Christmas in Crewe this year.

"It is wonderful that the Town Council has been able to put together its first advent programme. I would like to encourage everyone in Crewe to support the town throughout the season and help to build the festive spirit. Most of all, I am extremely proud to be hosting our first carol service for Crewe.

"This is truly what Christmas is all about and brings back the real meaning and message of Christmas.

‘Finally, I want to thank everyone in advance for their help in putting this programme together. I am sure it will be a great success."