HUNDREDS of lanterns filled Bromsgrove's high street on Sunday night, as part of the town's first Festival of Light.

The community came out in force for the parade, organised by Artrix, NWedR and Bromsgrove District Council, as schools and youth groups joined the procession and crowds gathered along the route.

Someone at the Door samba band launched the event by awakening a 20-foot giant puppet, which then led the 250-strong lantern parade down the street, searching for Bromsgrove's community spirit.

Children from St John's Middle School, Dodford First School, Alvechurch Middle School, Meadows First School and Bromsgrove Boys Brigade were among those taking part.

Angela Jones, deputy head at Holywell Primary in Rubery, said: "The parade was fabulous. It was nice to see so many people get involved in a community event and the children really loved getting involved.

"Artrix came into school to hold two workshops with our year four pupils and help them to build their own lanterns. Everyone worked really hard and it's definitely paid off."

Kristoffer Huball, who directed the Bunraku-style puppet, also worked alongside Artrix to deliver dozens of craft workshops across the district, with around 500 lanterns created.

He said: "It’s been a pleasure to make and create these paper lanterns with the people of Bromsgrove - the end result being the stunning lantern parade.

"It was wonderful to see so many fantastic creations lit up and on display.”

BBC Hereford and Worcester's Tammy Gooding presented the festival, which ended with a live performance from Birmingham-based Balkan gypsy band The Destroyers.

Bromsgrove centres manager Cheryl Welsh said the event 'proved what a fantastic venue our town centre can be'.

She added: "What better way to join together as a community than to share in creating and experiencing this magical piece of outdoor theatre.

"It’s been a fabulous end to a jam-packed calendar of events and I can’t wait to see what next year holds.”