THE Christmas spirit was out in force for the annual carolathon at Swindon's Pilgrim Centre.

The event took place on Saturday from 10am till 4pm with over a hundred carols sung by different groups throughout the day including Holy Rood Junior School, Emmanuel Church choir, St Peters choir and the Salvation Army.

Entertainment was also provided by the Tanwood dancers and those who attended included Bishop of Swindon, the Right Reverend Michael Doe, Mayor David Cox and Swindon MPs Julia Drown and Michael Wills.

Pilgrim Centre manager, Mary Willis, said: "It's just an all-day event for people in the town to drop in and listen to some music and watch some dancing.

"We are just trying to get across the message of Christmas. People can come and hear traditional carols and some modern songs, depending on the group singing. It's a great day."

Coun Cox said: "It's quite an afternoon of joyous singing and an opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit."