FLAMES lit the cold winter air as the 50th annual torchlight procession took place in Halstead.

The torchlight procession is held every December, and is a staple end-of-year event for the town.

Thousands attend the popular event, which returned last year after a two-year break due to the pandemic.

This year was no different, with a large crowd of hundreds of residents braving the cold weather to enjoy the event.

Gazette: The dignitaries lead the processionThe dignitaries lead the procession (Image: Newsquest)

Gazette: A trail of flames makes it way through the townA trail of flames makes it way through the town (Image: Newsquest)

Gazette: Residents parading through HalsteadResidents parading through Halstead (Image: Newsquest)

Flaming torches were held by adults and teens, with glo-sticks given out to youngsters, with all given out free of charge by Halstead Town Council.

A collection for mayor’s charity Halstead Day Centre was also held throughout the evening.

Gazette: Hundreds came to the annual eventHundreds came to the annual event (Image: Newsquest)

Mayor Jackie Pell welcomed people to the event, which began shortly after 7pm at the top of the High Street.

Also taking part were Braintree Council chairman Andrew Hensman and vice-chairman Diana Garrod.

Rev Katie de Bourcier blessed the town crib, on Market Hill, before the parade.

The procession headed down the High Street to Halstead Public Gardens, with the flaming torches and glo-sticks creating a stunning spectacle of light throughout the town.

Gazette: Drummers welcome guests into the public gardensDrummers welcome guests into the public gardens (Image: Newsquest)

Gazette: The procession entering the town public gardensThe procession entering the town public gardens (Image: Newsquest)

Gazette: A flame trail makes its way through the gardensA flame trail makes its way through the gardens (Image: Newsquest)

Gazette: The carolling service in the public gardensThe carolling service in the public gardens (Image: Newsquest)

Residents joined in for an evening of carols and prayer, with the Salvation Army band accompanying the singing.

Mrs Pell went on to close the event, thanking those for helping and attending.

She said: “This is Halstead, and we do things good.

“It really does feel like this is the start of Christmas.”

The town council also thanked residents for their support.

A spokesman said: "There was an overwhelming amount of people turned out for Halstead Town Council's torchlight procession this year.

"We would like to thank all the staff and volunteers who helped to make the event a success."