Basil visited Santa

In contrast to yesterday, the weather today was really murky. Some snow had fallen overnight but disappeared quickly as it continued to rain.

Nonetheless, we drove to Finkins where carols were to be sung at Hallcroft led by members of the Ignite Church, a recent addition to the religious communities here in Shepshed.

Shelters had been erected to shield us from the rain. Len took a chair for me to sit on. Despite a lower attendance than last year, we sang carols lustily. And then went to visit Father Christmas aka Colin, in his tent (grotto).

There were far fewer children than last year. I think those who were there were whisked away by parents because of the weather. Finkins didn't serve mulled wine this year perhaps because the helpers came from Passion, the hub that serves young people. Many of them would have been underage for serving alcohol.

Colin greeted Basil as his long lost friend then was joined by Jamie who was acting as his elf. He was having problems keeping up his tights. I suggested that it would have been even more difficult wearing stockings and suspenders.

See extras for carol singers and Santa plus his elf.

After Santa had changed, we walked down to The Tap to quaff gin and tonic.