Around 300 people lit the way through Sheerness during this year’s Christmas lantern parade.

The Big Fish Arts group held workshops throughout the week to help participants make their festive creations.

The parade assembled outside Tantra nightclub, off Bridge Road, on Saturday afternoon where people were given sticks to hold up their designs.

Pupils from Rose Street, West Minster, St Edward’s and The Isle of Sheppey Academy, along with members of the 8th and 12th Sheppey Scouts, were among those taking part.

The bands of Minster Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades led the march up the High Street, passing the Mayor of Swale, Cllr Sue Gent, at the Clock Tower.

A dance group also performed as the procession went along.

The parade made its way along Trinity Road before reaching The Royal Hotel, at which point the pub switched on its Christmas lights.

Walkers then carried on along Broadway where everyone enjoyed hot drinks and mince pies.

“It was fantastic. We do seem to get more and more people coming every year,” said Chris Reed, of the Sheerness Town Team.

“I think most of the people that made lanterns in the week came along and there were still some spare ones so no one went without.

“There were quite a few people coming out of the shops to cheer us on along the way.”

• Four-page picture special in this week's Sheerness Times Guardian.