Hundreds of revellers enjoy A Very Suffolk Christmas event on Ipswich’s Cornhill

Hundreds of revellers enjoyed a night of festive fun in Ipswich town centre over the weekend.

On Saturday, the Cornhill was transformed into a ‘magical festive hub’ where children could write letters to Santa, make wreaths and enjoy a Christmas market.

The event was organised by Ipswich Central Business Improvement District (BID), which has pledged to step up the number of events under its wing going into the new year.

Lee Walker, chief executive of Ipswich Central, said the BID was thrilled with how the event went.

He said: “The weather was kind and most importantly for us, the town was busy, with people of all ages enjoying the performers and activities.

“Next year will see more events across the town, as we step up our commitment to enable and promote more events.”

Mr Walker said his aim was to bring more people into the town centre to meet friends and family, enjoy music and offer other seasonal events.

It is hoped that new events will crop up each quarter.

The Cornhill event, known as ‘A Very Suffolk Christmas’, raised funds for Suffolk Mind.

As part of the day’s events, 157 letters to Santa were written and posted into a mailbag by Craftability.

In addition, 75 people made wreaths with Orwell Flower Club, with many donating £10 to Suffolk Mind.

Children were also able to enjoy four tractors parked around the town centre, the chance to meet Santa and his elves, plus live performances.

A spokeswoman for Ipswich Central said reception to the event was positive – with punters praising that there was an event in the heart of the town.

In total, the event raised £1,091 for Suffolk Mind.

On Saturday, a winter market took place at St Stephen’s Church, featuring independent crafters, workshops and second hand clothes.

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