Beechwood was a hive of activity throughout the day and families enjoyed a feast of entertainment.

Father Christmas, Beechwood Bear and characters from the Everyman Theatre Christmas panto switched on the centre's lights and they were then greeted by hundreds of cheering parents and children outside before parading through the town.

“The crowds inside and outside the centre were absolutely brilliant,” said Mr Acland. “The turn-out was incredible and everyone should give themselves a real pat on the back. I’m sure they all had a great time.”

Entertainment in Beechwood included a stilt walking balloon modelling elf, a walk-about Father Christmas who mingled with shoppers and occasional visits by Beechwood Bear, much to the delight of the youngsters. A quartet of carol singers entertained the crowds while Jellysmiles facepainting ensured a memorable and fun visit for dozens of young visitors.

The Economummy concept of providing a range of flexible work opportunities to Gloucestershire Mums in Business provided stalls which offered merchandise and promoted their services alongside a free children’s bouncy castle. Families were also able to drop off their children or take time out from shopping with Tick Tocks Flexible Childcare in a self-contained creche unit on the balcony level.

Beechwood’s free to enter bucking reindeer competition - with a prize for the person who stayed on the longest - did roaring business throughout the morning and afternoon with Luciano Steele winning £50 of vouchers to spend in Beechwood shops after remaining on the reindeer for 47 seconds.

The pre switch-on quiz run by Heart FM was also popular with vouchers donated by Beechwood shops among the prizes as well as free mince pies.