Woolston Christmas Festival
A first for Woolston! Swaythling Housing supported local traders and the community to come together to hold a three day Christmas Festival. Celebrating Christmas was a great way to lay the foundations for more work in Woolston and help this traditional ship building district begin a new and vibrant chapter in its history. Who would have thought that so many projects could come out of having fun! Southampton City Council and Raglan Housing also worked with us to bring the Festival about as did many local businesses and community groups.
To view a report on the Woolston Christmas Festival click here
The Festival was opened on the 16th December by Sheriff of Southampton, Councillor Carol Cunio. She switched on the Communicare 'Tree of Light', which was sponsored by Crest Nicholson and the Daily Echo. More than 150 people attended, and over £2,000 was raised to help fund the work of Communicare who support and befriend the elderly and vulnerable in the community. The Woodside singers sang carols despite the threat of rain and freezing cold.On Thursday 17th December two events were held. In the afternoon a Christmas Tea for the over 60s took place in Woolston Community Centre where Pat Jenkins sang songs from the big shows and had everyone singing carols. "I haven't enjoyed myself so much for a few years", said Norah Jones from Chapel.
In the evening local residents Barry and Maureen Wake organised a music night with a variety of musicians contributing to a wonderful evening of accoustic music.
The big event was held on Friday 18th December when Victoria Road was closed to traffic and traders stayed open. A Craft Fayre was held in St. Mark's Institute and a lantern procession took place over the Itchen Bridge. A rowing machine was brought along and set up in the road for people to test their fitness, Santa Claus greeted children in his grotto, and many musicians and singers came along and entertained. A stilt walking Christmas Tree and Mummers just added to the mayhem and merriment.
John Denham MP closed the event and spoke of Woolston's future as the new Centenary Quay development starts to happen. The Festival brought key people together. Traders are forming a new Trader's Association and they want to make the Festival an annual event. Look out for the 12th December 2010! Other projects are planned and we will keep you informed in our 'What's On' section as they happen.
If you want to get involved with anything in Woolston, why not contact Giv Thornton on 023 8062 8169 or email her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and find out how you can make a difference.
