FAMILIES lined the streets for a beautiful start to Christmas in Gloucester.
Crowds lined Eastgate Street, where the nautically-themed seasonal parade started to weave its way towards the Cathedral.
Gleaming galleons, hammerhead sharks, seahorses and octopuses fitted in with the theme of I Saw Three Ships.
Children and their teachers from city schools had made the lanterns and carried them proudly before their family and friends.
Rob Williams, from Churchdown, was there to watch his son Joseph, 10, in the parade. With his wife Jane he watched as the procession passed and the Gloucester Christmas lights were switched on.
Dursley resident Heather Smith chanced upon the fun while she waited for a lift.
She said: "It was lovely, so unexpected. It is super, fantastic."
Jemma Daniels from Tredworth braved the chilly air to accompany Taylor Barker, six.
"It is my first lantern celebration," said Taylor, who attends Hatherley Primary School.
