HIGHCLIFFE enjoyed a traditional dose of Christmas cheer on Saturday evening as residents lined the streets for the annual carnival.

Lymington Road was closed at 5pm to accommodate the parade - this year with a 'fire and ice' theme - which set off from Beacon Drive an hour later and thrilled residents and their youngsters on its way to the Globe Inn.

View all of our pictures from the event here.

This year also saw the return of the popular Gift Fayre in Hoburne Court - offering arts and crafts and other present ideas throughout the day.

“We were delighted to have a really big crowd like last year,” said carnival committee chairman Jeanette Lovelock.

“They really pulled out all the stops this year with the floats, which are such an important part of the event. I think people found the theme inspiring.

“We were particularly pleased this year to have New Forest South (Hordle) Scouts involved as they haven't attended before and we want to get people from the surrounding villages more involved.

“We have a straight, wide road here which is crying out for a parade, and we would like to see people from Mudeford, Bransgore, all the neighbouring villages getting involved.”

The parade began with fire performer Simon Chayney and ended with the Ice Queen's float, and included the Wessex Majorettes, twirling illuminated batons, and local scout and beaver groups and the Friends of Grange School.

There was a varied selection of live music from the likes of The Blue Cadillacs and Highcliffe Junior Choir, a range of refreshments suitable for a chilly winter evening, and games, rides and activities for children - including a Punch and Judy show.

The event was sponsored by Hoburne Holiday Park, Aldridge-Brownlee Solicitors and Hamilton Townsend property management, and raised funds in turn for Walkford Youth Club.

The carnival committee is seeking volunteers to help out on the day with marshalling the event and other duties. Visit www.highcliffecarnival.org.uk to get in touch.