THOUSANDS of people enjoyed a carnival atmosphere in Winchester at the weekend as the city's 30th Hat Fair hit the streets.

The annual event, the biggest free festival of street entertainment in Britain, once again proved a success with the crowds, despite some unseasonal downpours.

Over four days some 40 acts staged hundreds of performances at venues throughout Winchester's historic streets.

Highlights included the UK premier of Producciones Imperdible's Mirando Al Cielo, an Andalusian dance company who performed on a glass stage with the audience seated underneath for a truly memorable view.

The organisers say the aim of the event is to: "Bring the beautiful city of Winchester to life with a vibrant mix of oddball characters, breathtaking performance, unbelievable stunts, specialist circus, crazy clowning and world music". Judging by the crowds at the weekend, it certainly didn't disappoint.

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