FESTIVE cheer illuminated the night sky as two Hampshire communities ensured they have Christmas wrapped up.
Hundreds flocked to Whiteley Shopping Centre as the festive season kicked off in style, complete with a lantern parade that saw an impressive array of handcrafted masterpieces showcased pass the busy shops.
Live music and carol singing from the 1st Whiteley Scouts filled the air as families made the most of the seasonal market stalls, as well as the petting zoo, Miller’s Ark, which brought Christmas donkeys, sheep, piglets and ducks along to enjoy the celebrations.
Santa also took time out from his busy schedule to switch on the shopping centre’s Christmas tree lights, and handed out gifts to all of the children.
Neil Carter, Whiteley’s centre manager, said: “The atmosphere is always great at this time of year and our launch event always gets people in the festive mood.”
Not to be outdone, Lyndhurst High Street was also transformed into a festive wonderland as crowds wrapped up in their coats and scarves descended to see the lights switched on.
As the countdown came to an end, onlookers cheered as the shops were illuminated by twinkling lights.
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