HUNDREDS of people braved the cold to celebrate the start of the festive season in their town.

A Christmas Fair was held at the Connah’s Quay Civic Hall which saw attendees enjoy a visit to Santa’s Grotto, charity raffles, craft stalls and festive music.

The annual lights switch on was also held at the large Christmas tree on the high street and the event was hosted by Ian Gibbons and Barry Dale of Radio Deeside.

Cllr Pam Attridge, chair of Connah’s Quay Town Council, organised the event and she said the response to the fair and light switch on has been getting bigger and better every year.

She added: “The community coming together, that’s what it’s all about, that is why we started. For the children, the middle aged and the elderly, it’s all for them.

“When we used to light the tree, we would be outside in the wind and rain so when I was last chair in 2011/12 I decided to start doing the Christmas Fair to give people a place to go inside.

“It’s getting better every year, the kids love it. When people have multiple kids, they can’t afford to go and see Santa but they get to go for free here and get a little gift. It’s for all ages.”

Cllr Attridge switched on the lights as crowds gathered around the tree on Thursday evening, with festive music to spur them on.

Welsh Hearts were also on hand to give out free hot drinks in the cold weather. Refreshments were also available on the night, including free mince pies and mulled wine.

The Leader has previously reported that the Christmas tree in the town has been stolen and vandalised over recent years.

But this year, councillors have said they aim to install security measures to ensure the tree stays safe throughout the festive period.

Cllr Ian Dunbar, of the Wepre Ward, told the Leader: “We at Flintshire County Council are liaising with Streetscene trying to put protective fencing around the tree. We know it won’t stop the idiots we’ve had over the years but it could be something which will deter them, because this tree, as chair of Connah’s Quay Town Council said, it is for the people.

“We want it to last the length of the festive season. It’s a real tree this year and cost a lot of money but it’s worth it to see the enjoyment of the people.”