Counting down to Christmas ...

Nov 2 2007 by Ben Guy, The Journal

CHRISTMAS has arrived in Newcastle city centre with the unveiling of Fenwick’s window display.

The display, which has been held at the Northumberland Street store since 1971, this year features a range of festive model animals as well as the return of an important Christmas character.

Jill Wilson, spokeswoman for Fenwick, said: “The theme this year is Winter Wonderland and is a scene with lots of traditional Christmas activities.

“The display includes animals such as mice, squirrels and ducks doing their Christmas shopping and playing in the snow.

“There is also a Father Christmas, who is making a return after having a year off last year.”

The display also has a musical backing, with a song called Sing it Loud recorded by students at the Children’s Arts and Theatre School (CATS) in Gateshead.

John Trew of CATS said: “We were delighted to be asked to be involved in the recording as we have some fantastic young children who come to classes and deserve opportunities like these.

“We regularly encourage students to audition for parts in productions from theatres to television adverts and this is a chance for these youngsters to perform to a whole new audience.

“We can’t wait to hear the soundtrack playing out to shoppers on Northumberland Street as part of Fenwick festivities.” The school, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, is attended by children aged between five and 16 from across the North-East.

Fenwick’s first ever display was put on after representatives from the store were inspired by a window display in Paris.

Lindsey McKenna, head of marketing at the store, added: “As a retailer with its heritage firmly rooted in the North-East, we are really excited to be working with the local community and providing a platform for youngsters to showcase their talent.

“The soundtrack they have produced sets the scene perfectly for this year’s display.

“We hope that giving them the opportunity to be heard by thousands of people throughout the Christmas period will encourage them to pursue their ambitions further.”

Shoppers will be able to watch the display until the first week in January.

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Window into magical world

CROWDS gathered to catch the Christmas magic at the Fenwick window display yesterday.

From toddlers seeing it for the first time, to grandparents who have seen dozens over the years, everyone was having a good time.

Pat Pedersen, 60, of Links Green, Gosforth, Newcastle, brought her two grandchildren Lauren Leach, four, and Jessica Pedersen, three.

She said: “The thing about it is that is just like a wonderland and is something that you don’t see every day.

“We usually come every year and it is a big thing. The girls love it.”

Another grandparent returning to the display was Paul Hodgson, 49, of Wrekenton, Gateshead, who was with his grandson David, seven.

Mr Hodgson said: “I have brought him every year since he was born. He just loves to see the animals and the figures. I think they are better than they were last year.”

Kim Peebles, 31, of Red House Farm, Whitley Bay, was bringing son Matthew, two, to the display for the second time. She said: “He
has been absolutely mesmerised
by it.

“It is also special because it reminds you of your own childhood, so it takes you back to Christmas when you were young.

“It is a little bit magical.”

Amanda Davison, 25, took her daughter Jada, seven, to see the display for the first time.

She said: “She really likes it. I used to like coming to see it with my mam when I was younger and seeing all the different characters.

“It is really good for the children.”