MONNOW Street was aglow with the light from hundreds of lanterns last Friday (8th December) as Monmouth’s Christmas parade took place.

As more than 1,000 revellers gathered at the old Monnow Bridge, they were entertained by ‘Highly Strung’, Monmouth’s talented folk trio of Beth Piper, Cassie de St Crois and Eliza Mayo.

Then, led by Father Christmas, crowds joined in the annual event which saw lanterns of all shapes and sizes weave and bob their way up to the Shire Hall, where they were greeted by the Monmouth Rock Choir who sang yuletide hits to complete the atmosphere.

More music came from the Osbaston Church in Wales School Penny Whistlers, the Kymin View Choir and the Haberdashers prep school choirs.

All the while, Father Christmas, who had been invited by the Monmouth Rotary Club, met an ever-lengthening queue of children and handed out presents while the town band provided more festive music.

Some Church Street and White Swan Court businesses opened their doors for some late-night Christmas shopping and street stalls added to the festive atmosphere.

Organisers, the Monmouth Christmas Lantern Committee, are pleased that the event went so well.

They wished to thank the public of Monmouth for making such an effort and said they hoped to see everyone again next year. New committee members will be made very welcome.