BEACONS of light will illuminate the streets of Poole town centre when the traditional lantern parade takes place on Thursday, December 13.

Part of Christmas is a Breeze, sponsored by Breeze Volkswagen, the town centre will be filled with children parading with lanterns and illuminated works of art.

Organised by Poole Town Centre Partnership, more than 200 youngsters from Hillbourne, Lilliput First and Old Town First schools are working with Wave Arts Education to create bird, bee and butterfly lanterns illuminated with candles and LED lights. There are free workshops at Lighthouse this Saturday and on December 1 from 10am to noon and 1pm to 3pm where lanterns can be made. Booking is essential through the box office.

The procession will be led by Poole Mayor, Cllr Carol Evans and town crier David Squire accompanied by Poole Sea Cadets and stilt walkers, from Falkland Square at 6pm to the Guildhall to join the Old Town Conservation Group for carols and mince pies.