IT SEEMS like only yesterday but plans are already afoot to get people across Romsey involved in the Lantern Parade.

Hundreds of people came out to light up the streets in Romsey’s traditional countdown to Christmas as the annual event weaved its way through the city.

Crowds lined the streets to welcome the 1,200 people who took part in the parade and carried around 300 handmade lanterns with a theme of Christmas songs and carols.

A number of schools in and around Romsey as well as numerous community groups were involved.

Following on from the success of last year Romsey Town Centre manager Mark Edgerley and other members of the committee have been hard at work securing the future of this popular event.

“We have already received 50% of the funding we need for the 2016 event and have discussed some exciting ideas to develop the workshops run to encourage individuals and groups to build ever more challenging lanterns, he said.

“Considerable thought is also being given to a theme for this year’s lanterns, we are seeking something to engage the many young people who get involved through our schools and youth organisations and a theme that will encourage adults to enter our wonderful world of lights at Christmas.”

Interested parties can put forward their thought at the committee’s annual public meeting in the Romsey Town Hall Council Chamber on Tuesday February 23 at 7pm.

”This will be an opportunity for you to hear about our successful event last year and to share your ideas on how we might improve and extend the spectacle this year, please do join us,” Mark added.

Started in 2011, the event coincides with the late night opening of shops in the town organised by Romsey Chamber of Commerce.

It is funded with help from sponsors and grants from Test Valley, Romsey Town, Romsey Extra and Hampshire County councils.

The parade leads on to the traditional 'rescue' of Santa Claus by Romsey fire fighters from the first floor of the town hall to the delight of the watching crowds in the market place.