Archive Search Page

A bewildered Caron Fort (4) of Robinson Street, Burnley, aboard the rocket with Santa. The Mayoress lends a steadying hand and the general manager of the hall, Mr Ken Duxbury, is seen behind her.

Father Christmas left his reindeer at home on Friday morning, 17th December 1971, and went to a Christmas party in Burnley town centre aboard a rocket! His journey through the centre to his destination at the Empire Bingo Hall caused quite a stir among the morning shoppers. When he arrived he was greeted by a crowd of young admirers from Westway School for Special Needs who had eagerly awaited him as one of the chief guests at their Christmas party.

All the children received a gift and then the party followed a traditional note with a tea of jelly, cakes and pop. A Punch and Judy show was held to the delight of all the children, and then they played party games. Among the guests at the party, which was organised by the staff of both the school and the bingo hall, was the Mayor and Mayoress of Burnley, Alderman and Mrs. D. Parkinson; the Director of Education, Mr R. O. Beeston; and his deputy Mr G. R. Hill.