Reading hosts Christmas Extravaganza in Abbey Ruins

Live music and events kicked off at noon and went on all day as hundreds danced to the music, sang along and got into the festive spirit.

There were performances from dance band Limpopo Groove, guitarist Craig Sutton and Dat Brass, a high octane ten-piece brass outfit, amongst others.

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Bobby Lonergan of Reading BID, which along with Reading Borough Council has funded the Magical Reading Christmas programme, said: “It really was a magical day and each performer was stunning.

"We’d like to thank everyone who came along - and we’d like to remind all this was just the start of an amazing programme.

"There are events happening every day from now until Christmas Eve, all free, and you can find the details at www.magicalreading.co.uk and on social media."

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A lightshow swirled around the ancient Ruins and blues songstress Ma Bessie aka Julia Titus warmed everyone up with her soulful voice.

A school choir, with children from St Mary and All Saints, South Lake, All Saints and Bulmershe schools also enchanted the crowd with their carols and songs from the Love Actually movie.

In Broad Street, acts performed throughout the day in front of the town’s main tree, including Izzy Thomas, Jen Merchant and Terry Franks.

The finale saw fireworks being set off from the top of The Blade skyscraper to music in a stunning show which rounded up the sparkling Christmas Extravaganza.