CROWDS of people bearing festive torches marched through Halstead to mark the start of the Christmas season.

Hundreds of residents and visitors lit up the High Street with flaming torches and glow sticks for Halstead’s Torchlight Procession on Wednesday night.

They were led down the hill by the Salvation Army Band after the crib near the Christmas Tree on Market Hill was given a blessing.

After a parade through Bridge Street and Trinity Street, crowds packed into Halstead Public Gardens for the annual Town Carol Service.

Town mayor, David Hume, finished off the night with a reception at Queens Hall on Broom Hill.

Shirley Diver, vice chairman of Halstead Town Council, said: “It went very well, there were lots of people there.

“I think it was a big success and the weather kept really good for us.

“The traffic was very understanding and we are very thankful to the motorists who understood.

“It was very festive and we had dignitaries from out town who were absolutely thrilled with it.

“We all had a lovely evening, including the mayor’s reception afterwards in the Queen Hall.”

The free parade was organised by Halstead Town Council and the carol service was conducted by Churches Together In Halstead.