Father Christmas in the precinct, Mr Simms’ sweet shop and the Salvation Army Band at the Merseyway can only mean one thing - it's Christmas in Stockport.
But while the borough’s festive cheer is still in abundance in 2021, these memories are from Christmases gone by - chosen by Manchester Evening News readers.
The M.E.N. asked residents what their favourite memories of Stockport during the festive period were, and they picked out a cornucopia of festive joy.
READ MORE: The homeless people on the streets of Manchester on Christmas Day
Despite the variety of the memories, one really stood out - seeing Santa at the Co-op.
Lisa Nelson said: “The sleigh ride at the Co-op…I really thought I had move!!”
Sara Allen, Nicola Mullen, Janice Mcilvenny, and Caron Smith agreed.
Caron said: “Going to see Father Christmas at the Co-op.”
Gill Kelsall also favours meeting Santa, she said: “Taking my daughters to see Father Christmas at the Co-op in the precinct back in the 80s.”
Carol Chipcase opted for something a bit sweeter, explaining ‘Mr Simms’ sweet shop,’ was her favourite place at Christmas.
Oliver Harrison also chose to remember a musical pastime: “The Salvation Army band in the Merseyway while I went Christmas shopping with my mum and gran.
“It was very magical as a little boy.”
Chrissy Wright shared Oliver’s enthusiasm for the Salvation Army, saying: “The Salvation Army band playing outside our home.”
However, some residents opted for something everyone wants from Father Christmas — the end of the pandemic.
James O’Neill wrote: “When Covid didn’t exist.”
Karen Grundy remembered a great place to find Christmas gifts, she mentioned the joys of “shopping in Woolies.”
Chelsea Heywood remembered ‘Brinny’s Christmas tree’ — which earned the nickname ‘the twig’ in 2015 , after looking threadbare.
Some chose simpler, but just as charming memories.
David Howarth thought of, ‘Cobdens on a Friday night.’
Ian Thompson simply joked: “Leaving when all my shopping was done.”
Helen Cheetham joined in on the festive banter, she added: “Using the empty market stall tables as a nice relaxation station after a few bevvies.”
Do you have a favourite Stockport Christmas memory? Tell us in the comments.
