Oldham Council's new Christmas animation encourages Oldhamers to find their festive across the borough this Christmas season.
The inspiring production created by animators Jo and Paul Perry of the award-winning
Periscope Studios in Delph tells the heart-warming tale of the Oldham Owl and the Christmas Robin.
The story tells the heart-warming tale of the Oldham Owl and the Christmas Robin.
Robin feels down and sad, his feathers and chest are grey, but after turning to his old friend for comfort they explore Oldham together, taking in the Christmas sights.
With every stop the Robin becomes more colourful and we see the wonder of Oldham through the eyes of two old friends.
Creators Jo and Paul Perry said: “The film was a true labour of love for us. We’re faithful Oldham residents and we couldn’t wait to get involved in a project that celebrated Christmas in the borough.
“It made us feel so festive that we’ve even signed up to the Santa Dash in Saddleworth since completing the animation.”
Viewers can spot numerous Oldham landmarks in the festive animation, from Royton and Shaw markets to Uppermill High Street, the town centre, and Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre.
The video is intended to encourage people to “find their festive” locally this Christmas, by visiting the traditional Christmas events hosted throughout the months of November and December.
The Christmas Lights switch-on spectacular, Santa’s Reindeer Parade, the Brass Monkeys music festival are all welcoming families for to the town centre for Christmas cheer this year.
Councillor Amanda Chadderton, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “As our festive animation shows, friends and family are at the heart of Christmas.
“And as we know many people will be struggling this year as the Cost-of-Living crisis bites, we’re more determined than ever to provide free events for everyone to enjoy. There’s never been a more important time, particularly after Christmases during the pandemic where families were kept apart, for us all to come together and share in the warmth of the festive season. Our businesses also need our support, so please shop local for Christmas where you can.
“The animation is wonderful, created by a local business and representing the Christmas spirit of Oldhamers and our traditions”.
Three family events are planned to mark the festive period, the Christmas lights will be turned on Saturday 19 November at 5.30pm outside the Old Town Hall. The festivities continue Saturday 26 November with the return of Santa’s reindeer parade and festive entertainment, between 1pm and 4pm.
The final event of the period will be Brass Monkeys Festival, with the best brass bands playing Christmas classics across the town centre between 11am and 3pm on Saturday10 December.
Full details of the events can be found at www.oldham.gov.uk/ChristmasInOldham
“Robin Finds His Festive” can be viewed online here Robin Finds His Festive - YouTube