CROWDS lined the streets to welcome some very special festive visitors on Saturday - Santa and his reindeer!

The annual Christmas parade weaved its way through the town centre with street performers, bands, the Coliseum pantomime cast and performers from the theatre’s youth theatre groups.

The Night Before Christmas themed throng featured over 200 people from local community and arts groups who were joined by Dobcross Silver Band, Oldham Scottish Pipe Band and youngsters from The Incredible Plastic Street Band.

The much anticipated Santa's Reindeer Parade is the traditional launch of the festive season at Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre when Santa declares his grotto well and truly open for business.

Organised by Oldham Council and the shopping centre, it was also a chance for residents to catch their first glimpse of the Coliseum's panto characters ahead of their opening matinee of Cinderella.

The cast and youth theatre members represent the venue's long history of producing spectacular and award-winning pantomimes for the people of Oldham and beyond.

The tradition of the Coliseum’s pantomime began in December 1887 with a production of Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp.

The annual Christmas extravaganza has been ingrained in the theatre’s make up ever since.

Historical stars of their pantos include Eric Potts, William Roache, Barbara Knoxx (then Barbara Mullaney), Anne Kirkbride and Roy Barraclough.

Fine Time Fontayne, who this year plays the dame role of Pumpy Squeezepocket and is co-writer of Cinderella, said: “The Coliseum’s pantomime belongs to the town of Oldham and it’s something to be incredibly proud of.

"The young performers come to the theatre every week to learn and rehearse their own shows and I know they will do the Coliseum, and the pantomime, proud.”

Cinderella is sponsored by George Hill Timber and N Brown Group. The pantomime’s Educational Partner is Oldham Hulme Grammar School.

For the line-up of town centre Christmas events go to www.oldham.gov.uk.