Wokingham came out in force to enjoy its Winter Carnival despite the ongoing regeneration works blighting the town centre.
Thousands supported the annual event on Sunday, which saw charities invite visitors to play games, including tombolas, pin the carrot on the snowman and hook-a-duck.
As well as the charity stalls, there were local crafts people, mulled wine sellers and street entertainers.
Local groups performed including Berkshire Maestros, Reading Scottish Pipe Band and Royal Castle Jazz Band, while Wokingham Library welcomed a visit from Santa, who handed out presents to all good boys and girls. Morris dancers were out in force in Peach Street and Denmark Street.
Wokingham MP John Redwood arrived in time for the carol singing around the Christmas tree which this year has been placed on the Peach Street side of the town hall, due to the works taking place in Market Place.
And because there was no procession, this year’s finale saw a laser light show projected from the town hall on to the wall of Zizzi. The spectacle saw a host of festive scenes including snowmen, Santa, stables and a specially created Love Wokingham banner.
At the end of the show, the town’s Christmas tree was lit up.
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Winter Carnival chairman Cllr Philip Mirfin was delighted with how the day went.
He told The Wokingham Paper: “Thanks to the excellent work of volunteers, it was an excellent day.
“I’m delighted by the response, which has been great. I think a good day was had by one and all.
“Children loved the laser show.”
The large turn-out also pleased the voluntary organisers.
Cllr Mirfin said: “The crowd really turned out. There didn’t seem to be any reduction in numbers.”
Now, as the charities count up their donations, and work starts on next year’s event.
“It’s full steam ahead for next year,” Cllr Mirfin said. “We’ll hold a review in January and then start again in February.
“It will be bigger and better and the procession will be back. If Peach Place is open, then we’ll utilise it.”
