ORGANISERS of a special celebration in Carterton are hoping this year's event will be bigger and brighter than ever.

Free workshops are being held in November to give people the chance to make their own lanterns for the town's eighth annual Winter Lantern Procession, an event that ends with the Christmas lights being switched on.

This year teachers and group leaders are being encouraged to get in on the act with a special workshop of their own designed to provide them with skills and materials to take back to the classroom.

Heather McCulloch, arts and leisure development manager at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: "Last year more than 220 people took part in the workshops but we hope even more will take part this year.

"The procession is a wonderful opportunity for the community to become involved in a colourful event that lights up the town."

Oxfordshire artist Emily Cooling will be hosting the workshops, showing individuals and families of all ages how to make the paper lanterns. No experience is necessary.

The session for teachers and group leaders takes place on Thursday, November 3, from 3.30 to 5.30pm at Carterton Primary School in Burford Road.

The event is free, though people attending are asked to inform Carterton Community Centre so enough materials are available.

It will be followed by two more free workshops on Saturday, November 12, and Sunday, November 13, from 10am to 4pm at Carterton Community Centre in Marigold Square, Shilton Park.

Mobile workshops will also be available for schools and community groups.

The project is being co-ordinated by West Oxfordshire District Council and Carterton Community Centre, supported by Carterton Town Council, Carterton Lions and Carterton Primary School Parent Teacher Association.

The first Winter Lights Procession took place in 2009 and has continued each year due its popularity.

This year it will take place on Friday, December 2.

The procession begins at 5.15pm and is open to all, starting at Carterton Community College, Upavon Way, and ending at Carterton Town Hall.

The walk is about half a mile long and takes about 20 minutes to complete.