HOLIDAYS are coming to Swindon after the popular Coca Cola Santa truck stopped off at the town yesterday, much to the delight of Christmas shoppers.

The popular television advert often signals the start of the festive period for many and so it was no surprise that the vehicle pulled in the crowds as it parked up in Wharf Green..

The illuminated vehicles have become global advertising icons since they were launched on TV in 1995 and so the company decided it would be a good idea to bring it off the screens and onto people’s doorsteps.

The Santa lorry began its mission this year to kick start people’s Christmas in Blackpool. Since then it has been visiting a new town or city each day.

As well as free cans of Coca Cola, residents were also given the chance to have their picture taken in front of the famous lorry, with a choir on hand to perform a number of traditional Christmas songs.

Sue Fisher, 56, of Haydon Wick, brought her four-year-old granddaughter Millie down to see the truck.“It looks really good,” said Sue. “It gets people into the Christmas spirit and it is nice for the kids.”

Rachael Dawson, 30, of Yarmouth Close, Toothill said this was her second time visiting the Coca Cola truck – last year she saw it at Walcot’s shopping centre when her son Austin was first born.

“I printed out the picture last year, I will probably do the same again so I can have a collection of us over the years,” said Rachael. “I think it’s more impressive this year because they have the choir. I love Christmas. I have nearly finished my Christmas shopping.”

At 4pm the team switched on their snow machine and the town’s Christmas lights were also brought to life.

Brid Drohan-Stewart from Coca-Cola said: “The Coca-Cola Christmas truck marks the arrival of the festive season for a lot of people, and what better place to start spreading Christmas cheer than Swindon, which is embodying what Christmas is all about.”

Coca Cola carried out a survey to uncover ‘kind spots’ around the country. It revealed residents in Swindon are among the most caring with 63 per cent saying they would invite an elderly neighbour or relative for Christmas if they were going to be alone.”