VILLAGERS lit up a High Street with a lantern procession.

Hundreds of Earls Colne residents of all ages paraded through the village.

They were led by the Salvation Army Band as they made their way to St Andrew’s Church for a carol service.

Excited youngsters met Father Christmas and also followed a Christmas trail in the village shops, with each one revealing one of the 12 days of Christmas.

The Rev Vivien Brooks said: “This year we combined the carol service with the shops opening and it made a real community event of it.

“It was a very enjoyable evening and there was a lovely friendly atmosphere.

“I think we had our biggest turn-out ever for the carol service.”

:: Pictures in today's Gazette