WATCH: Santa arrives at Ford Christmas market and greets an excited child

The market, held outside under a street marquee and inside the Lady Waterford Hall, has been running since 2008 and offers a range of quality crafts, gifts and local foodstuffs.

A highlight for many youngsters was the arrival of Santa and his two donkeys.

A couple of squally showers got people scurrying for cover but there was plenty of hot food to provide welcome warmth, including a hog roast, wood-fired pizza, crispy conewich and fish and chips.

The organisers would like to thank all who support this event and in particular the sponsors, Olympus Marquees and EDF Energy. A special thank-you goes to Tillside Cricket Club for providing car parking marshals and Ford Hugh Joicey C.E Aided First School PTFA for booking and bringing Santa.