A LOCAL businessman has stepped in to save the Ringwood Christmas Parade.

Ringwood Chamber of Commerce announced last week the parade, which has been running since 1991, had fallen victim to the economic climate and lack of resources to keep it going.

Alison Howell, secretary of Ringwood Chamber, said at the time: “As a Chamber of Commerce we are trying to get more footfall into Ringwood and at the moment the Santa Parade doesn't do that. There will be no reindeer this year.

“We have battled against the odds for the last three years, but for how many years do you just keep trying? Everything evolves. Sometimes we can do the same thing year after year and it stays the same and never changes.”

She added: “Last year we had a full time assistant organising the parade, it is a full time day job and we don't have the resources this year. Everyone is scrimping and saving to meet their overheads, keep businesses ticking over and keeping people in employment.”

However, local businessman Jim Stride, who also organises the town’s Pedal Car Grand Prix, has now teamed up with local residents to put on a different Christmas extravaganza.

He said: “I saw the story and spoke to the Chamber and found out they were not doing it. It’s given me a chance to take it on. Through a Facebook campaign I’ve found about eight or nine local people – mainly parents – who are willing to help out.”

The new-look event will take place on December 15, starting at 5pm at the Furlong Shopping Centre with entertainment before a procession makes it way to the market square from 7pm where they will be more children’s activities and a Santa’s grotto until around 9pm.

Mr Stride said there will also be free parking courtesy of Ringwood Town Council.

“Hopefully Father Christmas will travel in the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car. It’s all coming together quite quickly. Usually the Chamber takes a year to organise the event but we’ve got seven weeks.

“I’m calling in a few favours but everyone including the traders are being very helpful.”