CWMBRAN CENTRE GEARING UP FOR A FUN CHRISTMAS SEASON

Cwmbran Centre is gearing up for a bonanza Christmas this year, with a host of activities to get people into the festive mood – including chances to win a holiday.

The centre is providing free weekend events, including a fun and festive crafts station at 29, Gwent Square, where children and their families can get creative, while street performers will entertain shoppers throughout the malls.

A special Christmas Market is to take place on Saturday, November 26, where shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and crafts from 11 local stallholders in Gwent Square and late night shopping will take place every Wednesday and Thursday from December 7-22, when stores will stay open until 7pm.

The centre’s land train will operate every Saturday for £1 rides.

Martyn Haftowski, Manager of Cwmbran Centre, which is owned and managed by national commercial property company LCP, said: "We're so excited to unveil this year's festive season and are looking forward to welcoming everyone for these fun-packed few weeks as we prepare for Christmas.

“As well as taking advantage of late-night shopping evenings, shoppers will have the chance to win some amazing prizes, including holiday vouchers, as well as enjoy entertainment and soak up the atmosphere as they get ready for Christmas. It promises to be a lovely time for all ages."

Events kick off on Saturday, November 26, at 11am when Christmas acts, including festive songs and dances by children from Nant Celyn Primary School, set the scene. The centre’s 30ft Christmas tree in Gwent Square and other festive lights will also be switched on during the day.

Santa's Grotto opens on the same day, giving youngsters the chance to tell Father Christmas what is on their wish list for this year. The Big Man himself will be at the centre every Saturday from noon until 4pm and will be joined by his cheeky elf. Entry costs just £2 and visitors to Santa will receive free chocolate.

Cancer Research will offer gift wrapping on December 10, 11, 14, 17 and 18 at its store between noon and 4pm, and for the first time, shoppers will be able to take part in a pony meet and greet on December 11 and 14 between 11am and 2pm.

Five raffles will be held – November 26, December 3, 10, 17 and 24 – when shoppers who have spent at least £10 will be eligible to enter a draw, with the main prize each day being a £750 voucher from Hays Travel. There will also be a runners-up prize of a £50 voucher from Rugby Heaven and a £25 voucher from Brown Bear.

Cwmbran Centre, which has about 18 million visitors a year, has 180 retail units over 740,000 sq ft and is anchored by Asda and Primark. Other leading brands include JD Sports, River Island, Superdrug, New Look and Deichmann. It also has 3,000 free car parking spaces and a dedicated bus station.