Magical intricate lanterns illuminate Fratton at Fratton Together's Festival of Light

Fratton Together’s Festival of Lights took place on Friday, November 14, as local residents took to the streets with a series of creative and inspiring lanterns. The procession started at the Victory Business Centre before making its way down Fratton Road to St Mary’s Church.

The Batala Samba Band led the parade creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere with the Mayor of Portsmouth leading the walkers behind.

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Over the past month, local residents had the opportunity to attend free lantern-making workshops with many in attendance with their creations.

Anna Potten, Fratton Together’s events organiser, said: “We have been particularly pleased with this year’s lantern making . Lots of people who have seen the parade before but never got involved have attended.

“We were particularly pleased to welcome students from Portsmouth Academy for the first time, who helped to create large lanterns as part of the Portsmouth Creative Educational Partnership’s “Under One Banner” project.”

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Ahead of the evening, the Venerable Bob White, chair of Fratton Together and vicar at St Mary’s Church, said: “As the winter nights draw in, Fratton’s Festival of Lights is an excellent reminder that the light we find to fight off the dark comes from our neighbours and our friends.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone in another celebration of the special community that surrounds Fratton.”

Here are 16 fantastic pictures of the event: