Winter Festival hailed as a 'genuine success'

A park trust in Peterborough said its annual winter festival had given it a "solid foundation to build on" after it welcomed nearly 8,000 visitors.

Nene Park Trust relies on income from events to maintain seven venues across the city, including Ferry Meadows.

It said it had made last month's event "weather-proof" by moving some activities to the festival's welcome area, making it more accessible, after parts of the festival were cancelled in 2024 due to strong winds.

The trust's Teresa Fairchild called the event a "genuine success".

"As with any event that develops at pace, there are lessons to be learnt, and we are already using feedback to shape future plans," she added.

The festival included a band of elves, live performances, a Santa meet and greet, and food and craft stalls, as well as Christmas-themed dog shows.

"A key strength of the festival was the level of interaction, from performers engaging directly with audiences on stage to families taking part in activities, sharing spaces and returning on different evenings," said Fairchild.

"We were particularly pleased to see visitors lingering, chatting and treating the event as a shared experience rather than a one-off attraction."

Fairchild also pointed out that the festival gave a platform for local charities and community groups.

"The strong levels of engagement, positive interaction and clear 'Nene Park family' atmosphere made this year's Winter Festival a genuine success and a solid foundation to build on."

Last month, the trust announced it was making six staff members redundant because of rising costs and an expected fall in income.

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