HUNDREDS of people braved the rain to watch the Boscombe Christmas Carnival. 

Featuring Santa Claus aboard a miniature traction engine, the festivities began outside Pokesdown Railway Station at 3pm today led by Dolphin Marching Band and the Wessex Majorettes.

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The group, which also included revellers sporting an array of costumes ranging from Postman Pat to Spiderman, passed Pokesdown Green before heading down Christchurch Road to the Precinct. 

Cindy Jermon, who has been organising the event for 18 years, said she was delighted to see people were not put off by the damp conditions and were having so much fun. 

“It always brings the area alive,” she added. “I grew up in Boscombe and it has become a downtrodden place but this brings some warmth and excitement back - and most importantly, the kids absolutely love it.

“It is something that just wouldn't happen though without the support of Chris Wakefield and Dave Wells - I cannot thank them enough for making it all possible.”

The parade culminated with Boscombe's Christmas lights being switched on for the first time this year, with residents also enjoying a range of stalls, refreshments and live music. 

David Froud, who drove the Burrell traction engine carrying Father Christmas, said he always enjoys the atmosphere of the carnival.

“It is great for the community and everybody always has such a good time,” he added. 

The carnival, which raises funds for pet charity the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), commenced in Pokesdown for the second year running after the successful change in 2013's starting location.