Father Christmas sends message of hope to Peterborough children

Santa was making a trip to Nene Valley Railway when he gave his message to youngsters.

In his message Father Christmas reassures children that Christmas will be going ahead as planned and that he and Rudolph are healthy, happy and ready to deliver presents. He also talks about his special health and safety elves who appear in disguise on the news most days and that everyone is to follow their guidance to ensure a #COVIDSafeChristmas.

Father Christmas’s message goes out to children just as Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council begin to share daily tips on how to keep COVID safe this Christmas. The campaign recommends fun winter and holiday activities and recipes to keep us all entertained over what will be an unusual Christmas this year.

Cllr John Holdich, Leader of Peterborough City Council said: “This has been a roller-coaster year for our residents, and I am so proud of the way everyone has come together and supported one other. The thought of Christmas being cancelled was too upsetting to bear, so I am very pleased Father Christmas has taken the time to reassure our children and thank you to Nene Valley Railway for letting him pop down to record his message from their winter wonderland.

“Now, with Christmas nearly upon us, Mrs Holdich is preparing to bake mince pies for our #COVIDSafeChristmas, ready to leave by our chimney for Father Christmas as a way to say a heartfelt thank you from us all.”

Cllr Steve Count, Leader of Cambridgeshire County Council said: “I was so happy when I was told Santa had made a special visit to Cambridgeshire to reassure all of our children. 2020 has been a tough year for everyone and my heartfelt thanks go to all our residents for what they have done to help each other through this pandemic. Thankfully nothing can stop Christmas and as long as we all remember hands, face and space when we celebrate, we will all enjoy a #COVIDSafeChristmas. I have been reliably informed washing your hands and using hand sanitiser regularly means Father Christmas is more likely to put you on the good list this year.”

Christmas celebrations across the county now begin in earnest. For ideas as to how to enjoy a #COVIDSafeChristmas please follow Peterborough City Council and Cambridgeshire County Council social media channels on Facebook and Twitter. There you will find lots of ideas and activities to keep you safe and entertained whichever way you decide to spend Christmas this year. Activities from baking to making your own Christmas wrapping paper are available to download and share amongst friends and family.