AS the winter night draws in, out will emerge some 200 hand-crafted lanterns to lead the way in the start of this year's Christmas market.

Some 2,000 people are expected to turn out in the Cathedral's Outer Close tomorrow night for an evening packed with entertainment.

The band Funk Lab kick-off the opening of the Christmas Market at 5.30pm followed by the Marwell Choir for a community sing-song.

As the lantern-brigade line-up down the centre of Nave Aisle, Japanese drummers will lead the parade before welcoming the Dean and the blessing of the Christmas Tree.

Prizes will be handed out by the Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Eileen Berry, before a short fireworks display.

The Christmas market opens today and runs until Sunday, December 21. It will be open every day from 10am-6pm, Sunday to Wednesday, and 10.30am-7.30pm, Thursday to Saturday.

The ice rink runs until January 4 with numerous sessions from 11am-7.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am-7.30pm Saturday to Sunday. It will be open at 10am on weekdays from December 15.

Anyone interested in taking part in the lantern procession should contact Bella Crafts who will be hosting lantern-making workshops at their Fair Oak and Romsey sites.

For further event details visit winchester-cathedral.org.uk/christmas/opening-night or call us on 01962 857275.