ROMSEY is kickstarting its festive season with a winter procession and lantern parade before the Christmas lights switch-on.

The winter parade, hosted by Romsey Carnival, is back this year with an array of lights, floats, music and dancing starting just after 6pm on Saturday, November 26.

This year, the free carnival is starting from a new location in Newton Lane Car Park rather than the normal meeting point of Crosfield Hall.

READ MORE: New route for Romsey Winter Procession and Christmas lights switch on

The parade will then see town residents and visitors turn left up Bell Street and complete a full loop, passing through The Hundred, Palmerston Street, and Broadwater Road before gathering for the Christmas lights switch on at 6.30pm.

Romsey’s Christmas lights are organised by Romsey Town Council and Romsey Chamber of Commerce with the support of local fundraising.

Lantern kits are available from The Star Inn for £7.50 and Hampshire based drumming band Swan Samba will be returning to the town to perform an LED drum show as part of the procession.

Temporary road closures will be in place from 6pm and parking is available at Romsey Rapids and Romsey Football Club.

For information on joining in or helping out email info@romseycarnival.co.uk.