The secret shopping, eating and drinking habits of Mrs Claus are causing much debate in Cockermouth ahead of Christmas.
The lady herself has been seen around town – and the mystery is being documented in a series of films by Cockermouth & District Chamber of Trade.
Meanwhile, Val Armstrong, arguably one of the most famous voices in the county thanks to her decades at BBC Radio Cumbria, and former television reporter Samantha Parker, who many will recognise from her years at ITV Border, have both been breaking the news for the chamber of trade.
Brigham-based professional actress Emma Rydal, known for appearances in Coronation Street, East is East, Doctors, Vera and more, as well as on stage, most recently in her play Soaked, completes the cast.
The films have been created by Cockermouth & District Chamber of Trade using the talents of chamber member Penny Watson, who is a photographer and videographer.
She said: “I absolutely love Mrs Claus, she’s glam, full of fun and just loves this town. Everyone in Cockermouth made her feel so welcome and truly embraced the spirit of Christmas so I wouldn’t be surprised if she popped back.”
Suzanne Elsworth, chamber publicity officer, and co-producer of the film, said: “We have had an absolute blast making these films and I have to thank everyone in town who shared our enthusiasm.
“It’s amazing when we rock up at a business and say ‘just stand there in front of the camera as Mrs Claus is just about to walk into your shop’ and they do it without question.
“Getting Val to do the radio piece, Samantha to be our TV reporter, and Emma to act in the film is the icing on the Christmas cake for me. The only problem is, I don’t know how we’ll top this in future!”
