ALTON'S annual Yuletide Festival attracted thousands of people to the High Street on Sunday, making it another record event in the town centre – and certainly one to remember.

With the weather cold but bright, it was the perfect day to soak up the festive atmosphere, to shop at more than 100 craft, charity and food stalls lining the street and in the Assembly Rooms, play games, take part in raffles and fun activities, and enjoy the street entertainment.

There were carol singers and dancers, stilt walkers, comics, mime artists, face painters, animals and fair rides as Christmas came early in Alton.

Organised by Alton Town Council and presided over by Alton mayor Sue Hodder and town crier Stan Whitcher, the event was charged with fun, laughter and Christmas spirit.

For full story and more pictures, see this week's Alton Herald.