Member Article

Children’s dreams come to life in colour at Kirkgate Shopping

Kirkgate Shopping’s Christmas countdown has started with the return of its annual Christmas colouring competition. Children (aged 9 and under) across the district are being invited to get creative to win a VIP role in the Magical Reindeer Parade. The annual Magical Reindeer Parade will spread cheer through the city centre on Sunday 5 November, marking Santa’s arrival at Kirkgate Shopping. The centre is home to Bradford’s only free grotto, which has delighted children for over four decades. The winner of the competition and their family will attend an exclusive tea party with the Lord Mayor, Councillor Abid Hussain on 26 October and will join Santa during the parade. Catherine Riley, centre manager, said: “Kirkgate Shopping’s Christmas celebrations are an exciting time for the people of Bradford. The reindeer parade kicks off festivities throughout the centre and I can’t wait to see this year’s colouring entries. Every year we receive sack loads, it’s every child’s dream to ride with Santa on his sleigh! “Visiting Santa in our grotto is free for all children and they’ll also receive chocolate and stickers. Those who write a letter to Santa and post it at the centre will also receive a reply from Santa himself!” Helen Fuller, mum of Holly-Mae, one of the 2016 winners, said: “Holly-Mae was very excited about winning the colouring competition last year, the tea party with the Lord Mayor was actually on her birthday so that’s one memory she’ll never forget! The parade was a truly, magical experience for Holly and I’d encourage all parents to get their children involved this year; it’s a great activity to do with them.” Colouring competition entry packs for the competition can be collected and handed in at the Kirkgate Shopping Information Bureau. The closing date for entries is Monday 23 October and the winners must be available to ride in the parade on Sunday 5 November and have tea with the Lord Mayor at City Hall, Thursday 26 October at 5pm.

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