Twinkling fairy lights, mulled wine and the invigorating tradition of ice skating helped visitors to Dover Cruise Terminal enjoy their first flushes of Christmas.

Saturday’s official opening of White Cliffs Christmas saw Santa pulled through a bustling winter market by his reindeer to meet children in his grotto.

And this Saturday sees Andy Walker from kmfm present a one off Ice Party at White Cliffs Christmas at the Dover Cruise Terminal from 5-8pm.

He will be playing Kent's Biggest Hits as skaters enjoy this festive ice rink.

Also attending will be the KMFM Street Team ....maybe we will see them on the ice.

The inaugural event, organised by The Port of Dover, saw families browse handmade craft stalls, sample locally-made delicacies and indulge in treats and fancies from local vendors.

Among the traders were Kent Dark Chocolate, English Heritage – Dover Castle, Prinny B clothing, Romney Marsh Brewery, Cotton & Reel, Phoenix Greetings Cards, E&D Shabby Chic, The Flower Jar Confectionery, Adorn, photographer Peter Kesby and handmade gifts from The Student Makers and Intricutz Crafts.

Those brave enough to take to the ice in their woolly hats, gloves and scarfs, wobbled, glided and some even twirled to the sound of Michael Buble by realistic tribute act Jason Alan Sway.

Other performances also included Swingtime Sweethearts and Rudy Warman and the Heavy Weather.

The former dockside railway station, now converted into Cruise Terminal 1, was adorned with Christmas trees and radiated all the sights and smells of the season.

There was even the launch of Cockles bar, a permanent addition owned and run by former Deal author and actor Peter Cocks. It sells locally brewed beers and soft drinks and serves freshly baked pasties and hearty snacks.

He said: “I’ll be opening the bar at weekends and any other special events throughout the year.”

Port of Dover chief executive Tim Waggott said: “What a fantastic way to start the countdown to Christmas! The White Cliffs Christmas event is a first for the Port of Dover and judging by the enthusiasm of the crowds, it will certainly not be the last.”

For a spread of pictures see today's Mercury