Christmas came early to Nottingham as revellers got into the festive spirit in the city centre. While Nottingham city centre was not quite brimming with those celebrating at the start of the last weekend before Christmas, possibly due to the weather, there were still plenty of groups enjoying time together on the night of Friday, December 16.
Some of those venturing into freezing temperatures the had dressed festively, with one even decorating his beard with Christmas lights. Tony Thomas, 63, who dresses in his Santa outfit every Christmas for a night out, said he and his two friends Reg Haywood, 70, and Norman Twells, 69, regularly meet up at this time each year.
"I dress in this usually just once a year for a bit of fun and we meet up for a drink - although I've just had a grandchild so now I might use it when I'm not drinking too. The sleigh broke down so we had to take the tram," Tony said.
"We like to come together at Christmas time every year. I think this is the first year we have felt we can properly socialise this Christmas, and go round to a few pubs for some fun."
Julie Woodward, 63, and Cheryl Carney, 58, from Nottingham said they had been meeting up for Christmas drinks for years. "Friday is not always the busiest of nights but I think people are letting lose a bit this Christmas. After the last few years I think we need it," Julie said.
Cheryl added: "It's always good to come out, even if it is a bit cold tonight. We like to go out at this time of year for a few drinks and a have a bit of fun."
Glen Wright, 44, who was partaking in a work night out with his beard decorated with Christmas lights, added: "This is the first time I've been out like this in five years. We've had a few drinks and some fun, we're all friends and colleagues.
"I think Christmas brings people together, so it's good to have a bit of an outing. Merry Christmas!" We've put together a gallery of the start of the last weekend before Christmas, which you can view below.
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