Families pack out Portsmouth Guildhall Square in the run up to Christmas

There was plenty to keep all ages occupied with a festive market, live music, and street performers entertaining and it was a chance for local businesses to promote themselves.

There was also the opportunity for people to leave their mark at the square by drawing chalk snowflakes on the ground – and a highlight was the showing of Arthur Christmas on the big screen.

Tobi Stidioph, events organiser, said: ‘We’ve got a lot of local businesses from Portsmouth and Hampshire here today and people will recognise them at other events.

‘It is important to support them and make them some money around Christmas.

‘It can be stressful, especially putting up all of the stalls but I’ve really enjoyed it and we will review and look to host one next year.

Heather Todd, assistant organiser, added: ‘Everyone could bring their blanket, come together and see the area turn into a Christmas wonderland.

‘It’s fantastic to have an event around the beautiful tree.

Rebecca Hendry, from Southsea, attended with her son Joe.

She said: ‘It is really nice to have something like this in Guildhall Square.

‘It is a beautiful space, with the tree there, and it does not get used enough for things like this.’

Ryan Hocking, from Havant, brought his three daughters Imogen, Edan and Tabitha.

Ryan said: ‘It’s nice to come somewhere that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, especially at this time of year.

‘The girls have been looking forward to it.

‘We have our blankets with us.’

Jan Marmel, from Petersfield, said: ‘I always feel that Portsmouth has a lot of good things going on.’