THOUSANDS of people flocked to Wokingham town centre for the winter carnival on Sunday.

There was entertainment for all ages as jugglers, dancers, musicians and Father Christmas took part in the six-and-a-half hour spectacular.

The highlight was the procession which included a steam engine and vintage cars. A snow machine turned Market Place white and people sang carols and the Christmas lights were switched on.

Dave Donaldson, chairman of the organising committee, said the attendance were not too badly affected by the rain and was similar to last year's total of 20,000 people.

He said: "There was a great atmosphere and it kicked off Christmas."

For a report and pictures, buy a copy of the News on Thursday.