THOUSANDS of people lined the streets of Romsey on Friday evening as the town's annual Lantern Parade took place.

Lighting up the town centre, scores of locals from community groups and schools took part to bring more festive cheer, with late night shopping seeing plenty of stores opening their doors for the evening.

Onlookers could also cheer as once again, Father Christmas found himself stuck, only to be freed by the Hampshire Fire and Rescue firefighters who volunteered their time.

The event came as Romsey was ranked third in a UK poll to find the most festive destinations.

More than 250 locations were nominated.

Last month, hundreds turned out for the market town's light switch-on, as Santa Claus and his elves made an appearance to greet youngsters in the Winter Parade.