MORE than 7,000 people descended on Pembroke Castle's Christmas market last weekend.

Visitor numbers were up 2,000 on last year as people flocked to the birth place of Henry VII to enjoy the Christmas cheer.

There were more than 60 stalls – 20 more than last year - selling gifts, toys, local produce, clothing and jewellery throughout the four day bonanza, which ran from Friday (November 29) to Sunday (December 1).

The highlight of the event was on Friday evening when Father Christmas arrived at his castle grotto before switching on the town’s lights.

There was music from local school carol singers and musicians, and all of the proceeds went to Macmillan Cancer Support - event sponsor, Valero’s, chosen charity.

Pembroke Castle manager Jon Williams said: “It was a really great weekend. This is the second year we’ve done the market and it got bigger and better this year. And the weather was on our side.

“It was nice to get plenty of people in for the arrival of Santa. It was just a really good community event and it’s great to see something bringing in extra business for Pembroke.

"We could not have done it without the support of our event sponsors, Valero, and our volunteers.”

Pembroke mayor Cllr Keith Nicholas thanked everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s event, which “was enjoyed by locals and visitors alike”.

He added: “There was such a vibrant and special atmosphere, it was truly magical.

“One little girl, after visiting Father Christmas at the grotto, said to her mummy that today was the best day of her life. This summed up the whole weekend - it was great for the Castle and also for Pembroke town centre.”