IT was a very successful and busy night for Launceston, when late night shopping was held on Friday, December 2.

Sue Issleib, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce said the idea was to have something for everyone — as well as the shops staying open late there was plenty of entertainment.

At 6pm children saw Santa as the parade passed through town, with Shire horses, St Stephens pupils carrying their willow lanterns, the sounds of Launceston College Samba Band, and Launceston mayor and mayoress Brian Hogan and Anita White, and town crier Rob Tremain.

Santa then met children in his grotto at the Market House Arcade.

In town there was a bouncy castle, bucking bronco and Magic Martin was also on hand, and the square was made extra festive with snow.

The side streets were also packed with entertainment, including festively-dressed donkeys, various stalls and refreshments, including mulled wine served by the Rotary Club.

At 7pm the Christmas tree festival at St Mary Magdalene Church was officially opened by Cllr Hogan and Ms White. The festival is open every day until December 10, from 10am to 4.30pm, and open on Sunday, December 11, for worship.

Mrs Issleib said: “It was very successful, a busy night and I think everybody was happy. There were lots of people about and lots of lovely smiling faces.

“The Christmas tree festival was amazing, the church was very full. Father Christmas was busy in the Market House Arcade. The Shire horses were wonderful and the donkeys were cool! The snow was profuse!

“It was a successful night with something for everybody.”