THE pouring rain did not dampen the community spirit in Johnson Fold as families weaved their way through the streets for the annual lantern parade.

An array of handmade lanterns lit up the Johnson Fold estate as visitors marched en masse to the sound of the samba drum.

For the first time ever, the Christmas lights switch-on, organised by the residents' association, featured a special performance by pupils from Johnson Fold Community Primary School.

Santa Claus also came to town to join in the parade and hand out presents to the children.

The traditional lantern parade set off from Johnson Fold UCAN centre at 5pm, accompanied by vibrant youth samba band Pulse of the Place.

Rev Oliver Preston, who is a member of the Residents' Association said: "Between 80 and 100 of us walked, with lots of energy, up and through some of the streets.

"Thankfully the rain didn't dampen our spirits. There was a really good atmosphere with plenty of noise and light.

"People came to their doors and windows to say hello and to join in with us.

"The families had made lots of traditional teepee-style lanterns, many of them personalised."

The group, joined by some 20 volunteers who had stepped in to steward the event, made their way to St James the Great RC Church.

At about 5.30pm, visitors heard a selection of Christmas songs from the school choir.

The celebrations continued with the Christmas light switch-on and a community fair inside the church.

There were a range of stalls to browse and a selection of food and drinks to fill the crowds. Santa drew the raffle at about 8pm, bringing the event to a close.

Rev Preston said: "The event was supported by the local churches, and this year we had the school choir for the first time.

"It was a good chance for the community to come together and celebrate the season.

"For the churches, it was great to get behind a lantern parade because the symbol of light is very important to us at this time of year — Jesus is the light of the world. It also sends out a message of hope.

"We want to bless and support our community, and to see events like this thrive."