KNUTSFORD’S first Lantern Parade proved a shining success and the town council have high hopes for its bright future.

Around 100 people turned out on Saturday evening to take part in the family-friendly festive event, led by Manchester Community Pipe Band.

The parade, which was designed to coincide with St Cross Christmas Tree Festival, began at the Mobberley Road church before weaving its way through the town centre.

In anticipation of the event, the town council organised two free lantern making workshops and pupils from Manor Park Primary School and Poppies Day Nursery got to work on their own lanterns.

Deputy Town Clerk Lisa Benskin, who organised the event, said: “It was great to see so many families come out for the parade and support a new event for Knutsford. The creativity of the lanterns made at the workshops and at home was superb.”

The event is now set to become an annual feature of the Knutsford Christmas calendar.

“We already have a few ideas of how to make the 2015 event even better,” added Lisa.

The town council thanked the Knutsford Hosts for their help at the lantern making workshops and also with marshalling the parade.

If you have any feedback or suggestions for the 2015 Lantern Parade, contact Lisa on 01565 653 929 or email lisa.benskin@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.