Hundreds of people lined the streets in downtown Southern Pines Saturday, Dec. 13, to watch the annual Moore County Driving Club Christmas parade.

A beautiful sunny day brought out 26 carriages, all decorated for the holidays. There was even a snowman carrying a "Support Our Troops" sign to remind everyone of the servicemen and women who are serving our country in Iraq.

As in years past, Santa arrived with Mrs. Claus and their elves, spreading cheer to the children who were busy accumulating the candy thrown to them from other passing carriages.

Deborah Roberts of Southern Pines and her paint horse Clipper put to a German Kuhnle Spider Phaeton were awarded a prize for "Best Parade Turnout" by a secret Santa designated to judge the parade by Linda Long, President of the Moore County Driving Club.

The Moore County Driving Club began in 1980 with a handful of carriage drivers and has grown to over 180 members.

The Club sponsors the annual Christmas Parade and an annual Pleasure Driving Show.