Clitheroe Chamber of Trade and Commerce has preparations well under way for a spectacular evening of entertainment this festive season. The Chamber has joined forces with East Lancs Hospice to create Clitheroe’s first St Nick’s Night Santa Dash through Clitheroe town centre on Friday 2 December.

The evening’s entertainment will begin at St Mary’s Church Clitheroe, where Rev Andy Froud has been on a mission seeking young ‘angels’ and ‘shepherds’ from local schools and churches to create a record breaking Walking Nativity.

Musical entertainment will enhance the festive atmosphere along with Pendle Productions panto stars from Jack and the Beanstalk including BBC Radio Lancashire’s Sally Naden.

Families and children in costume will be welcomed with mince pies, refreshments and glow bands at St Mary’s from 4pm.  The Walking Nativity sets off at 5pm narrated by Clitheroe’s own story teller Simon Entwistle telling the ‘Secret History of Santa Claus’.  The parade will continue up through town to the Crib at the Castle Gates ready to cheer the first Santa Dashers setting off at 6pm.

Ian Lloyd, President of Clitheroe Chamber of Trade and Commerce is delighted with the way plans have come together for Clitheroe this year:

“The Chamber Christmas Campaign Team started planning early on in the year.  When East Lancs Hospice approached the Chamber to ask if they could join in our Christmas event we knew Clitheroe was in for something special.  

We are also delighted to announce, as part of Clitheroe St Nick’s Night shops, restaurants and cafes will be buzzing with great atmosphere throughout the town. 

 Judging will also take place for the winner of Clitheroe’s Best Dressed Festive Shop.

 There will be live music on the street, hog roast and many shops offering complimentary mince pies and mulled wine.  We welcome everyone from across the region to enjoy Clitheroe’s festive celebrations.”

It’s not too late to take part in Clitheroe St Nick’s Night Santa Dash, go to Santa Dash 2011 Registration on www.eastlancshospice.co.uk

For more information on how to get involved in the event contact samturner@ferncourt.co.uk

Clitheroe Chamber of Trade & Commerce has secured one of Europe’s top window dressing and art display teams, back by popular demand – Clitheroe’s Wonderful Wow Factor Windows! Look out for over 30 beautiful hand painted artisan window displays – painted exclusively and uniquely for shops in Clitheroe town centre this Christmas!  The Christmas lights and trees will remain a glittering part of Clitheroe’s festive atmosphere.  Artists Alastair Price & Caroline Johnson from Brittany are visiting Clitheroe direct from completing a tour of France and their commission to the UK will be exclusive to Clitheroe.

On Castle Street visit Lulu Browns beautiful baroque styled boudoir of all things feminine and fantastical –  a dream to come true for exquisite romantic gifts for the special lady in your life .  A few steps away you will find Igloo, one of the Ribble Valley’s leading destinations for interiors and super spectacular gifts that will surprise and delight!

Visit Clitheroe’s newest hot spot and browse,  buy and commission Northern contemporary artists original and limited edition artwork in Revolve Art Gallery. 

Tempting treats and dazzling delights await at Nettleton’s Jewellers offering a stunning range of fine jewellery, ornaments and watches. Whisk yourself away to  Clitheroe Travel where expertise travel agents can help you book your next holiday or special trip.

As you stroll along the cobbled streets of Clitheroe discover the delights of nearby Wellgate a warm welcome awaits you at jwl contemporary jewellery’s wonderful world of sparkle.  The Flower Shop on Wellgate is one of the UK’s leading florists and stocks ceramics, unusual giftware and a superb gift and design service.  From nails to a spray tan in, Genesis Hair & Beauty can cover it all and will pamper you from head to toe for every special occasion this festive season.

If your suit or dress needs refreshing for Christmas party nights there is no safer hands than Clitheroe Dry Cleaners.

Enjoy the ambience of Market Place where Reads of Clitheroe provides all aspects of quality clothing for the discerning man whilst the charming Sarah Rose provides a  stunning collection of jewellery and accessories.

Take a leisurely stroll along King Street’s parade of chic designer fashion stores, boutiques and lingerie specialists including Seasons, Lady Clitheroe and County Vogue – there is no excuse for all the ladies to shop ‘til you drop!  Lose yourself in the fabulous sparkly and eclectic contemporary gift and home wear shop Raffia, followed by a trip to Harry Garlicks for all the latest state of the art electrical goods, plasma screen TV’s and audio equipment

Tempting sweet treats await all the family in The Chocolate Box.

Take time out to experience an exquisite hair salon experience at Paul Smith Hairdressing.  Make sure you visit the most famous department store in the Ribble Valley – right here in Clitheroe’s King Street – the legendary Dawsons. 

Don’t miss out the iconic Harrison & Kerr Butchers with their popular range of sheepskin rugs.  Bring a little flower power to your home from The Flower Gallery.

Pop over to New Market Street and visit the stunning range of outdoor clothing at Ken Vareys Outdoor World and Spex has a fabulous range of fashionsable eye wear,

The iconic Clitheroe Market is guaranteed to make your visit to Clitheroe a very special one with a he range of stalls offering fresh produce, quality clothing and wonderful Christmas gift ideas.

Moor Lane is one of the most popular shopping areas where the delightful Molly’s Café nestles alongside the ultra fashionable Le Tete et Tout.  Keep warm this winter and create your own style in Woolcraft and Designer Knitting Yarns.

Clitheroe Lighting Centre is a family run business and has become one of the North-West’s premier lighting retailers. Bring music to your ears in Clitheroe Music and step to the beat with dancewear from Twirlies.

Clitheroe Books is putting the cool into Yule with festive readings and workshops over the weekend 11^th & 12^th December.

There is even time to make all your dreams come true at award winning bridal gown and wedding wear specialist Amelia’s where you will also find a sensational range of glittering evening and cocktail wear.

Cheer up someone special with a treatment from Clitheroe Beauty Centre and step out in stylish footwear from Thirty9.

Lose yourself in at Twitter Lane Interiors on Moor Lane admist a gorgeous selection hand sewn, beautifully crafted soft furnishings, and home accessories.   

Not forgetting the most important part of the family, Hattyboo’s pampers your pets with its bespoke accessories and dog grooming service.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to all who shop and visit Clitheroe in 2010!

Wonderful Wow Factor Windows! Look out for over 30 beautiful hand painted artisan window displays – painted exclusively and uniquely for shops in Clitheroe town centre this Christmas! :-

Clitheroe has recently been voted Official Food Town of Lancashire and it’s not surprising given the superb choice and outstanding quality of the towns dining experiences and venues!

This Christmas you will be spoilt  for  choice as you treat yourself, friends and family to some of the best festive food experiences in the Ribble Valley.

Relax and unwind whilst doing your Christmas shopping in a selection of wonderful venues such as the Exchange Coffee Company on Wellgate with its sumptuous selection of coffees and teas from around the world. Soak up the original Victorian ambiance in this little gem of a place and transport yourself back in time the authentic ambiance of a Victorian tea room!

Molly’s on Moor Lane will be serving a very special Christmas menu in December with a delicious range of hot soups, cakes and chefs specials to warm any chills!

Apricot Meringue on King Street also is one of Clitheroe’s favourite cafes to relax and enjoy a great range of teas, coffees and mince pies!

Visit The Emporium where you can always find the best service, comfortable surroundings and a boundless array of cappuccinos, coffee, teas and great food served all day. The wine bar and brassiere is a great place to meet up with friends.

Maxwell’s is also famous for it’s attention to detail, outstanding customer service and wide range of delicious food for all the family. Indulge yourself in their cakes, patisseries, cookies and probably the best afternoon teas in the area. Maxwell’s also will be hosting great live music nights throughout December so you can dine in style and be entertained by top vocalists.

The Penny Black Restaurant at The Post House Hotel is a charming and elegant venue to host a great family or romantic night out. Offering a superb Christmas selection of evening meals and lunches it is one of the most popular restaurants in town.

No trip to Clitheroe this Christmas time would be complete without visiting Cowman’s World Famous Sausage and Butchers Shop. The award winning family butchers offers a sizzling choice of over one hundred mouth watering sausages to make your Christmas dinner sizzle in style!

Clitheroe Chippy is open all over the Christmas season serving delicious fish and chips, award winning pies and the best chip butties in Lancashire!

Why not combine your shopping trip with a visit to the Grand Venue and enjoy a show and dining experience – all in once place! Serving only fresh food, Taste @ The Grand is a place to stimulate the senses and deepen friendships in a venue like no other. Set at the rear of the auditorium, Taste  is ideally positioned to serve the public throughout the day while being able to enjoy live music and see behind the scenes of a live music venue. It also hasten iMac computers connected to the internet, free to use for customers!

Clitheroe Castle Atrium Café is also a great location to watch the hustle and bustle of the town below, with a stunning castle top view of Christmas in Clitheroe.  There is a special festive menu being served throughout December.

Not forgetting the wonderful range of  outstanding dining establishments on the outskirts of town including multi award winning Northcote Manor for a very special Christmas & New Year dining experience. For those special Christmas  Sunday lunches The Three Fishes is always a great treat.

The Rose & Crown is one of Clitheroe’s best loved pubs and will be serving traditional favourites and great live music throughout December.  Clitheroe’s other great pubs and bars include The Swan & Royal, The White Lion and The Inn @ The Station all serving the best beers and cheers across the festive season!

As the night moves on, keep the party spirit going with a Christmas cocktail at Carlitos.  For the ultimate party night out visit  Key Street Live Music venue where live bands will be playing the best party sounds until late and keeping everyone dancing into the new year!

So cheers everybody and let’s eat, drink and be merry this Christmas in Clitheroe!

Clitheroe Chamber of Trade and Commerce

Christmas shopping is unique in Clitheroe, as our town is famous for its feel good factor and friendly service and many of Clitheroe’s unique shops have become popular attractions in their own right. Enjoy the very best selection of local and authentic produce, unique present ideas, gifts galore and a veritable treasure trove of designer home wear goods and must have fashion and accessories.

Enjoy all the festive fun, musical merriment and food tasting feasts with our fun filled shopping experience this Christmas!

President of Clitheroe Chamber of Trade & Commerce, Mr Ian Lloyd is delighted by the enthusiasm and energy of the towns traders, businesses and  independent entrepreneurs, he said “The Chamber is encouraged by the record breaking up take in membership over the last couple of months we have now been able to put into practice plans and proposals in enhancing Clitheroe as a vibrant shopping destination over the Christmas period”.

The Chamber has secured one of Europe’s top window dressing and art display teams, back by popular demand – Clitheroe’s Wonderful Wow Factor Windows! Look out for over 30 beautiful hand painted artisan window displays – painted exclusively and uniquely for shops in Clitheroe town centre this Christmas!  The Christmas lights and trees will remain a glittering part of Clitheroe’s festive atmosphere.  Artists Alastair Price & Caroline Johnson from Brittany are visiting Clitheroe direct from completing a tour of France and their commission to the UK will be exclusive to Clitheroe.

Saturday 4^th & Sunday 5^th December  

• Festive Christmas Market – The Rose & Crown
  10am – 4pm 
• Live entertainers
• Clitheroe Town Band
• Children’s Choir

Saturday 11^th & Sunday 12^th December

• Christmas Poetry Workshops & Festive Reading

In association with Ribble Valley Borough Council and the Pennine Lancashire Poetry Stanza, Cathy Grindrod, who grew up in Clitheroe and is the former Derbyshire poet laureate, will put the Cool into Yule with a festive workshop and readings over the weekend 11 & 12 December.   Following on from the successful Shop! Project, which saw over 50 poems displayed in shop windows and published in an anthology, residents are invited to try their hand at penning a Christmas ditty, or hear talented local poets share their work.  For more details contact Clitheroe Books on Moor Lane.

• Santa Service Trains!

Santa Services trains are Saturdays 11^th and 18^th December – from Manchester to Clitheroe.

•  The Grand Venue

 Make sure you visit The Grand Venue this Christmas for non stop fun packed entertainment all over the Christmas season – so much for all ages and all the family to experience and enjoy!

• The Platform Gallery

 ‘Kaleidoscope’ exhibition features dazzling work by over 100 artists from across the UK.