It's the most wonderful time of the year

As the song says ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year’, Christmas is fast approaching and this week Salisbury opens its winter wonderland to welcome in the festive season.

Our beautiful city has become used to being in the news over these last nine months so it’s good to see that spotlight is focusing on Christmas in Salisbury and all it offers over the festive period and new year.

The city was featured in The Observer last Sunday. I was interviewed and, hopefully, did my bit to promote #ChristmasinSalisbury and encourage shoppers and visitors to visit

Wiltshire Council has suspended Sunday car parking charges in its car parks, not just in Salisbury, but across the county.

Here in Salisbury we’re also promoting the free after 3pm parking and all day free parking at the five park and ride sites, Monday to Saturday. It all helps to bring people back into the city, Amesbury and south Wiltshire.

I was asked by The Observer reporter what the mood was like in the city. If the comments on social media are an indication, it’s clear there’s a positive buzz building with a lot of excitement and anticipation about the ice rink.

It’s been exciting to watch the rink and the Christmas market being installed ready for the opening on Thursday this week

As I write this, tickets are selling fast for the ice rink with more than 3,000 already sold.

There are some great themed events from a 1980s DJ night (time to dig out the legwarmers), a Christmas jumper day and Skate with Santa sessions. These are sure to be a huge hit with our younger residents. They run from 22 December to Christmas Eve.

Places are limited so I’d advise you book now at Salisbury Christmas Market. I’m looking forward to getting my skates on and having a go.