Hundreds line streets for Hungerford extravaganza

The ever popular Victorian Extravaganza attracted hundreds of people in Hungerford last night (Friday)

THE smell of roasting chestnuts mixed with coal and steam provided a glorious backdrop to Hungerford's Victorian Extravaganza last night (Friday).

Hundreds lined the streets as stilt walkers, Morris dancers, Punch and Judy and side shows vied for their attention.

The air filled with the sound of excited screams from children on fairground rides and the hiss from the vintage steam engines.

Then, at 7pm, town mayor Martin Crane, resplendant in stove pipe hat and whiskers, led the parade.

Shops did a roaring late night trade and customers formed queues at cash points.

The Hungerford Band played carols and Father Christmas handed out sweets.

It was all topped off with a stunning fireworks display.

District councillor Paul Holtby (Con), who also dressed in Victorian costume for the occasion, remarked: "We are so lucky to live in a town like Hungerford. Where else pulls together to put on something like this?"

Check back with us later to see a gallery of our pictures.

And don't forget to pick up a copy of next week's Newbury Weekly News for full coverage and lots more images.