Santa Claus paid an early visit to the island last night when he took part in the annual MarketPlace Christmas Parade.

Hundreds of spectators lined the route as a fleet of more than a dozen vehicles snaked its way through Hamilton.

The parade had started at the grocery chain’s Shelly Bay store in Hamilton Parish, arriving in the city just before 7pm. Accompanied by a police escort, the brightly decorated floats drew cheers from the crowds.

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After leaving the city, the floats, which were manned by MarketPlace staff continued west to the chain’s store in Heron Bay, Southampton.

The parade was appreciated by spectators who gathered in large numbers at City Hall to watch the procession.

One man, who asked not to be named, summed up the atmosphere.

He said: “It’s been another tough year – we’ve been indoors a lot of the time. Considering the time we’ve had with Covid and everything, it’s just great to see everyone out enjoying themselves and having a good time.

“I thought the floats looked great and there was a really good turnout. It was a good effort by everyone.”

MarketPlace has been holding a Christmas parade every year for more than 30 years, changing the format last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

This year’s parade was also affected by the pandemic, with staff members manning the floats using SafeKey.

Earlier, Seth Stutzman, the president of The MarketPlace group, said: “The MarketPlace family believes strongly in upholding traditions, particularly during the Christmas holiday period.

“We are so thrilled to be back with the motorcade and see everyone on the road once again.

“We had a great turnout – our team was here and the community really came out and supported us.

“We had more floats than we normally do because the fire department came in with extra vehicles and the police who were escorting us brought in extra bikes. I can’t thank them enough.

“I’m incredibly proud of the MarketPlace team and incredibly grateful to all of Bermuda and the community we serve.

“There were so many beautiful faces in the crowd, getting involved, singing along to the Christmas songs. That’s what it’s all about – sharing and coming together.”