CHRISTMAS spirit by the barrel load was rolled out on the streets of Petersfield on Sunday, with hundreds of visitors enjoying the festive atmosphere.

The weather may have been windy and drizzly, but the cheeriness of the Christmas Festival shone through with live music and song, and an abundance of delicious food and drink.

The Prize Old Mummers were a hit with their entertaining tale, the play members wandering around the crowds bringing much mirth and laughter. The children loved the petting animals at Miller’s Ark as ever, with the cute factor provided by miniture donkeys, sheep, goats, giant rabbits which were hopping around the traditional stable scene, and colourful chickens.

Foodies are always well catered for at Petersfield festivals throughout the year, and the Christmas event was the creme de la creme.

It combined again with the Hampshire Farmers’ Market so there was something to tempt everyone – from award-winning cheeses and top tipples to artisan breads and quality meat including more unusual cuts from water buffalo and goat.

Some super street food was on offer too to the hungry hordes such as Spanish paella, hog roast, breakfast baps, bubble and squeak and warming soup.

The stalls lined The Square, Lavant Street, Chapel Street and the High Street, and there were entertainment zones with a line-up of children’s entertainers including Strawberry Dan, the Salvation Army band, the The Petersfield School?Wind Band, and singing from children at Petersfield Infant School.

Jakes Toys on Chapel Street proved a popular stop-off for families, where Santa had set up shop, welcoming young visitors and giving out gifts. A Christmas tree service also went down well.