The streets of Littlemore were bathed in the glow of candle-lit lanterns as the village’s annual festive parade attracted a record crowd.

Almost 50 children and their parents braved the cold and walked from Littlemore Community Centre, in Giles Road, to SS Mary and Nicholas Church, in St Nicholas Road. Pictured is Taliah Harris, aged four.

The event, which began about a decade ago under the guidance of a German vicar celebrates St Nicholas, the patron saint of children who is the traditional bearer of presents at Christmas time in mainland Europe.

Current vicar Margreet Armitstead, originally from The Netherlands, has organised the event for the last six years. She said after this year’s parade: “It was a great success, with a huge number of people — more than in previous years.

“There were probably about 45 children and their parents.

“It was a really good turn out, It was great to bring everybody together — it was very festive.”

In keeping with the tradition of the event, the elusive “St Nick” paid a flying visit to the church and left sweets in the children’s shoes which were left in the vestry.

The Rev Armitstead said: “He did make an appearance. No-one spotted him but I managed to speak to him briefly. He thanked the children for the carrots they left out for his horse. He is a very busy man!”