Dozens of residents in Trafford gathered at a venue in Urmston to 'usher in the holiday spirit' during its annual Christmas event.

The South Eastern Group of Freemasons, who meet at Urmston Masonic Hall, welcomed the community into The Venue on Westbourne Road on Thursday, November 23.

Wayne Devlin was master of ceremonies at the event and performed beloved Christmas classics as visitors of all ages indulged in yuletide merriment.

Local school choirs also entertained the crowd of proud families, care home residents and the Trafford community.

Mr Devlin's wife, Val, ran a raffle which was drawn by the Mayor of Trafford, Councillor Dolores O'Sullivan.

The Mayor thanked the South Eastern Group of Freemasons for extending this hand of fellowship between the local Freemasons and their neighbours.

Messenger Newspapers: Father Christmas and Eddie Wilkinson (right)Father Christmas and Eddie Wilkinson (right) (Image: Wayne Devlin)

Father Christmas greeted children from his hand-crafted grotto, ensuring the youngsters left with holiday cheer and a handful of sweets and chocolates.

Eddie Wilkinson, secretary of the South Eastern Group, had prepared The Venue room with decorations, furnishing and lighting in full Christmas grandeur before attendees arrived and his "tireless efforts" were praised as instrumental to the event's success.

Mr Devlin said: "Gatherings such as this show the Freemasonry's ongoing community presence and goodwill.

"Through such annual traditions, the South Eastern Group proudly continues demonstrating year-round support for the people in their local community and its surrounding areas." 

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