A whole host of events are planned by various organisations in Usk to ensure that the Christmas season really is a festive one:

Saturday, December 10, sees the annual Christmas Draw held by St Mary's Guild, where a number of beautiful hampers are raffled. This is taking place during a coffee morning at the Youth Centre in Maryport Street, from 10.30am, with entry of 50p.

Father Christmas and his reindeer will be visiting Usk on Sunday, December 11. Starting from Twyn Square, they will process through the town led by the Prince of Wales Marching Band, eventually returning to the Square where Usk Town Band will be playing carols.

A line dancing Christmas event is being held at Usk Conservative Club on Tuesday, December 13, which is open to everyone, starting at 8pm. Entry £3.

On Saturday, December 17, Usk Town Band will again be performing, in their own Christmas Concert at the Memorial Hall, starting at 7pm. Also taking part will be a Barbershop Quartet, the Uncalled For 4. Tickets are £5 for adults, to include a glass of wine and a mince pie, and £1.50 for children. Tickets can be bought from Wendy at Tangles hairdressers on 01291 672227, or from Sam on 01291 671121.

Throughout the month, carol services will be taking place, with a carol concert at Usk College Campus on Wednesday, December 14, at 7pm. The singers will be accompanied by the Salvation Army Band, who will benefit from the retiring collection. Help with transport to this venue is available by contacting Ann Morgan on 01495 333635.

A traditional carol service to which everyone is welcome will take place at St David Lewis and St Francis Xavier Catholic Church on Thursday, December 15, at 7pm. This will be followed by mulled wine and mince pies in the church hall.

Meanwhile, at Usk Baptist Church, Newport Chorale will be taking part in a carol concert on Tuesday, December 20, at 7.30. For more details, contact Marilyn on 01291 672274 or Barbara on 01633 420918.

In the final run-up to Christmas, Usk Conservation and Environment Group is holding a Christmas Extravaganza on Monday, December 19, at the Royal British Legion Club in Newmarket Street. Starting at 7.30pm a fun-filled evening will include a quiz, a raffle and a buffet. Tickets are £5, and members and non-member are welcome. For tickets contact Denise on 01291 671091.