Thousands of people got into the festive spirit in Harpenden this weekend at the annual Christmas carnival.

Residents braved terrible weather to enjoy funfair rides, Santa’s grotto and entertainment in the town centre on Sunday.

The celebrations came to a grand finale when the town’s Christmas lights were switched on at 5pm.

Town clerk John Bagshaw said: "It was a tremendous carnival. It was vibrant.

"It was a very successful day. I have never seen it so busy."

However, due to strong winds in the morning, organisers were unable to set up the farmer’s market that was planned to take place during the day.

Mr Bragshaw added: "It was disappointing for the farmer’s market traders but we just couldn’t get the stalls up.

"The wind was too much in the morning. We were just worried there was going to be an accident."

A pupil from High Beeches Primary School was given the job of switching on the Christmas lights.

Zoe was selected to switch on the lights after she was named the winner of the Harpenden Christmas Poster Competition. Town mayor Nicola Linacre was also a guest onstage during the afternoon’s entertainment.

She said: "It was a lovely family outing. People were very enthusiastic. "There was a really nice atmosphere.

"The lights look lovely. They really lift people’s spirits."

Bang & Olufsen of Harpenden, which is based in High Street, set up a giant snow globe for people to have their photographs taken in to raise cash for charity.

Staff raised £150 for Reach Out Plus.