THE streets of Poole were transformed last night during the town's annual Lantern Parade.

This family-favourite event, organised by Poole Town Centre Partnership, drew bumper crowds despite a chilly evening.

Local schoolchildren, who have spent weeks planning and making their lanterns, paraded along the High Street with their lanterns and illuminated works of art.

Pupils from Old Town, Oakdale and Lilliput schools have been working with artist Caroline Rackman to design their lanterns.

Poole town centre operations and marketing manager Hannah Porter said: "More of the community than ever took part this year.

"It was great to see so many getting involved."