MORE than 17,000 people flocked to the first Metropole Market of the year last weekend.

The event, which took over the Lansdowne between 11am and 9pm, featured Alice in Wonderland-inspired outfits, a tea party and yarn bombing in celebration of Lewis Carroll’s much-loved children’s novel.

Entertainment came courtesy of local musicians Lewis Jordan Brown Trio, stilt walkers Beetlejuice Circus, crowd favourites Street Comedy and local theatrical artists, Pantheatrix.

Visitors enjoyed international food, sweet treats and drinks from a range of stalls along Holdenhurst Road along with arts and crafts, clothing and accessories.

Paul Kinvig, chief operating officer from Bournemouth Town Centre BID, said: “Metropole Market’s debut has been spectacular. A truly fantastic event both for the community and for local businesses. Congratulations to the organisers and the team for working so hard in the sizzling sun to deliver an unforgettable day for all attendees. This is just the first in a series of wonderful events still to come.”

Lyn Turnbull, co-organiser of the Metropole Market and Co-Owner of Mexigo Burrito Bar, said: “The ‘Alice in Wonderland’ themed celebration has been a fantastic success. We’ve received a great amount of positive feedback from visitors who joined us out in the sunshine for the first market of 2018.”

The next Metropole Market will be held on June 24 and will have a New Orleans Jazz Festival theme.

It will feature jamming Jazz bands, entertainment as well as food to reflect famous Louisiana cuisine.

The themed markets will continue on the last Sunday of each month during July, September and October, with a break in August.