The iconic Coca-Cola lorry rolled into Yeovil town on Saturday morning causing a buzz before the event even began.
People began to gather around 10.30am to await the start of the event at 12.00pm. Visitors to the event were able to have a professional photographer take a picture right next to the truck that could be accessed on line for free. Visitors could also sample some sugar free Coca-Cola, listen to an amazing choir singing everyone’s favourite festive tunes and get close up and personal to the truck itself.
The Octagon Theatre team visited the area to promote the up and coming panto Sleeping Beauty. Visitors were treated to a visit from the stars themselves Sleeping Beauty and Prince Michael. The panto performances start from this Friday (4 December) and tickets can be obtained from the box office (01935 422884), online at www.octagon-theatre.co.uk or pop into the theatre.
As things got dark, the truck really came into its own with lights twinkling and the snow machine made the event a magical feeling for the younger visitors.
Many of the towns businesses had a very busy days trading and praised the efforts of the event organisers.
The owner of the Candy Shack said, “It was our best Saturday since opening in October. I would really like to see the Coca-Cola lorry return in 2016. The event was very well organised, a good team effort from the Play Maker event team and South Somerset District Council. The benefits have continued over the last couple of days through Facebook enquiries”.
The owner of The Sweeterie said, “Never seen the town busier, there was a real party atmosphere and we had a good days trading”.
The owners of the Dutch Oven said, “The Coke lorry resulted in a wonderful generation of business lower end of Middle Street, what a brilliant boost”.
Many other businesses reported a good days trading including The Entertainer, The Pound Shop, Weatherspoons including businesses further up Middle Street.
Councillor Peter Gubbins, Chairman of South Somerset District Council’s Area South Committee said, “The Coca-Cola truck visit to Yeovil was a huge success and we were pleased to see and hear that many of the towns shops had a fantastic day of trading. This really was a boost to the town and we hope that the town centre continues to be busy in the run up to Christmas now that many visitors have seen the wonderful shops Yeovil has to offer”.