HUNDREDS of people are gathering to mark one of the biggest celebrations of body art on the South Coast.

Artists, designers and punters have flocked to the Ageas Bowl today for the Southampton Tattoo Festival – Halloween Edition.

The colourful two-day event – which continues today - unites of some of the region’s top artists and enthusiasts for a tattoo convention with a Halloween twist.

The festival features exhibition space for traders, demonstrations and interactive classes where people could go under the needle and have tattoos applied.

Visitors dressed as witches, zombies and skeletons, while traders decorated their stands with a range of scary displays, including pumpkins, skulls and cobwebs.

The festival features live music from more than 20 local bands – plus other entertainment such as Bloody Bones the circus performer, as well as fire shows and family friendly burlesque.

And there are also more than 80 vintage and alternative stalls offering a wide range of clothing, homeware, accessories, collectables and gifts.

There is also children’s entertainment and education, food outlets and a picnic style family area.

Tickets are £10 on the door Children under 15 have free entry.