Thousands turn out to enjoy Winter Wonderland
TWINKLING lights, Christmas tunes and festive treats were enjoyed by thousands of islanders at the Bachmann family’s Winter Wonderland on Wednesday.
The Specsavers-backed spectacle again partnered with the Lions Club of Guernsey and Cancer Research UK Guernsey branch to support the annual event’s 24th year.
All money raised from the event will be split between the two charities and more than 3,000 people were thought to have attended the glorious spectacle in St Saviour’s.
For two-year-old Billi-Marie Truffitt, it was her first experience at Winter Wonderland and mum Rachel Troy said Billi-Marie was loving it.
‘This is the first year she really understands Christmas and she’s loved pointing out all the snowmen and Father Christmas,’ she said.
Five-year-olds Seb Clement and Otto Falla had also never been to Winter Wonderland either.
‘It’s amazing,’ said Seb.
The boys’ favourite parts were all the bright colours and pretty lights.
Serving hot mulled wine and cider were a team of Lions Club volunteers.
Angelique McConnell said: ‘We wanted to get involved with this great community event and, although it’s been a bit manic, the atmosphere is incredible and the house and gardens look amazing.’
They anticipated selling around 400 cups of the hot drinks, but only an hour in they had already sold 500.
On Monday, Winter Wonderland will open again exclusively for people with autism and their immediate family. With limited numbers, it allows individuals with autism to fully enjoy the experience without large crowds and excessive noise.
Peter and Frankie Bachmann have allowed Autism Guernsey to host autism-friendly evenings on their grounds for more than five years.
Special thanks was given to Guernsey Electricity for helping to power the lights.
