SOME of Ross-on-Wye’s outlying villages kept the Christmas spirit going.

Walford Village Hall was filled with festive cheer following a hugely successful Christmas Fayre on Saturday, as families gathered to celebrate the magical arrival of Santa Claus on his spectacular husky-drawn sleigh.

Santa's elves
SANTA’S ELVES: Little helpers prepare the grotto Sheila Dewhurst and Anne Pople. (Tindle)

Children and parents alike were captivated by the unforgettable midday moment, which set the tone for a joyful afternoon of community spirit.

The event, despite the intermittent rain, delighted visitors with delicious turkey and stuffing rolls, steaming cups of hot chocolate and a tempting range of refreshments, while an impressive variety of craft stalls showcased local talent and unique handmade gifts.

The hall buzzed with excitement as families browsed, ate and enjoyed the warm festive atmosphere together.

Trustee Anthony Jones praised the community’s support, saying: “It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying themselves and supporting the village hall.

scouts
SCOUTING CHRISTMAS: The 1st Walford Scouts with their festive decorations stall, TK Worral, Richard Worral and Arron Best, assistant scout leader. (Tindle)

“Thanks to everyone’s generosity, we raised just over £400, which will go directly towards the maintenance of this much-loved community charity.”

tractor run
LOCAL SUPPORT: Residents line the streets of Hoarwithy for the festive tractor run. (Tindle)

Meanwhile residents of Little Dewchurch, Hoarwithy, Kings Capel and Fownhope lined the streets as the Farming Minds Tractor Run rolled through the area’s country lanes, to see the vehicles decked out in their Christmas finery.

Tractor run
FESTIVE TRACTORS: Farming vehicles all decked out in their Christmas finery roll into Hoarwithy. (Tindle)

The event, known as ‘When Farmers Do Christmas’, raises thousands of pounds for a locally based charity which supports the agricultural community and raises mental health awareness.

Tractor run
HITCHING A RIDE: Santa leads the way on the front of a tractor. (Tindle)

The annual Ross-on-Wye Tractor Run Sunday takes place on December 21 and will be in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance.

The procession leaves Ross Cattle Market at 6pm and heads to St Mary’s Village followed by Alton Road, The Gresleys, Tudorville, Walford Church, Hom Green, Archenfield Road, Walford Road. Roman Way, Archenfield Road, Broad Street, Ledbury Road, Three Crosses, River View, Vaga Crescent, Oaklands, Brampton Road, Brampton Abbotts, Gatsford, Old Gore, Upton Bishop, Phocle Green, Rudhall, Bromsash, Lea and then the A40 back to Ross.