A PARTY atmosphere engulfed Winchester as visitors from around the county gathered for the annual Christmas lights turn on.

The BBC's The One Show broadcast live from the event, with host Matt Baker conducting the proceedings last night.

The 'Christmas Capital' was lit up at 7.30pm to an array of cheer and celebration at the event, put on by the Winchester Business Improvement District.

Conducted with Children In Need's Rickshaw Challenge, Matt had been cycling since 2am from Bristol - a 74-mile journey, the longest in the fundraising event's five year history.

A host of local dance groups performed on stage, including Winnall-based Integrity.

Their under-14 dance group BluePrint took to the stage and choreographer Darren Lee said he was proud to see the dancers perform, he added: "To have the kids performing on TV is fantastic.

"They are great dancers and for them to be doing something like this is just brilliant for them as it is great publicity.

“If some of them ever wanted to get into the industry, what better place for than national television."

Attendees Rachael Miller and her son Jacob said they had been going to the light turn on for seven years, with this one being the best one they had witnessed.

Mrs Miller added: "We are from Winchester and the event is always a special one to attend. We loved having The One Show host it and because it was live on TV, it made it extra special."

See picture special in tomorrow's Hampshire Chronicle.