THOUSANDS descended into Romsey to watch the Christmas light switch on - to which could have been a "record turnout".

Residents and visitors turned out in the rain to watch Romsey Town Mayor, Cllr Janet Burnage press the switch to reveal a fabulous 25 foot tree covered in white lights as well as the hundreds of coloured LED bulbs strung across the principle streets throughout the town.

Mountbatten School Windband, joined by a number of former students, played Christmas themed tunes as a prelude to the main event.

Romsey town centre manager, Mark Edgerley, said: "It was an amazing turnout, there were thousands of people there.

"If it wasn't a record turnout, then it was very close.

"We expected a good turnout - but I couldn't believe how many came, people were arriving at 5:30pm."

He added: "The BKP Winter Carnival Procession then passed through the crowds, supported by a number of local companies and community groups this procession gets better with every year, Tableaus full of colour, light and sound with dozens of adults and children waving to the crowds and encouraging donations that the Carnival Committee will distribute to local charities.

"Many braved the weather to join the Walking Tableau who were followed by ponies and riders dressed for Christmas."