Llangollen Fringe Festival has announced that it is taking on the running of the town's Christmas Festival from this year.
In a statement last night the Fringe said: "After many years of wonderful service, Chem and John Palmer are hanging up their Santa boots and stepping into a well-earned retirement.
"Their dedication has been truly appreciated, and we know they’ll be missed. Unfortunately, no one has come forward to take the reindeer reins — so the Fringe Directors have unanimously agreed to step in.
"We want to be clear: this isn’t a takeover. It’s about supporting the continued running of a much-loved event, providing it with the logistical help it needs to thrive. We're all committed to keeping the Christmas Festival alive and well — a free, inclusive celebration for the whole town.
"We're proud to help keep this festive tradition going strong and ensure it continues giving back to our fantastic community."
The festival, which has gone through a series of organisational changes over the past couple of decades, has delighted many thousands of people over the years and raised large amounts of money for good local causes and, latterly, also for the Welsh Air Ambulance service.
It is usually held on the last Saturday in November and attracts large crowds.
The Fringe, on this year from July 11-20, is run entirely by volunteers, dedicating their time for the love of the arts, music, entertainment and all things in between.
It was born in July 1997, in an impromptu tent on an out-of-town playing field.
From then through to its present central location in the Town Hall, via a converted weavers' shed, the Fringe has increased its reputation with every year.
Over the years it has provided affordable events for individuals and families from all over the world.
It has always punched well above its weight with names such as Damian Hurst, Cerys Mattews, Carol Ann Duffey, The Beat, Charlotte Church, The Blockheads, Sir Andrew Motion.
It also provides access to World Music, Folk, Dance, Comedy, Workshops, Informed Walks, has themed Train Journeys and Canal Trips.
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