Santa rides into town to herald the start of Christmas

The man in red brought smiles and laughter as he rode into town on his magnificent sleigh, accompanied by his band of helpers and the Langton Loons.

Santa spent the day greeting children in his grotto in the Battle Memorial Hall, which had been transformed into a magical Christmas scene, before switching on the town’s Christmas lights.

Battle’s Christmas celebrations continue next Thursday (December 11) with the town’s annual Gala Night.

The shops will stay open until late, there will be entertainment throughout the town and Santa will be in residence at the Abbey Gatehouse.

And for the first time, the town will be transformed into a winter wonderland for the evening, with igloos on the Abbey Green, with mulled wine and mince pies for shoppers.

The event will be held in association with local firm, Optix Events.