Residents joined the Mayor of Weymouth for a special new carol service.

Carols by the Coast took place on the Weymouth seafront with music from the Salvation Army Band.

It took place on a chilly evening next to the Christmas tree near the Beach Office on the promenade.

Dorset Echo: Carols by the Coast in Weymouth

Dorset Echo: Mayor of Weymouth Kate Wheller

Mayor of Weymouth Kate Wheller said: "I am delighted by the turnout. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.

"The council plans for this to be an annual event on the first Saturday of December.

"It is a good start to Christmas."

There was an appearance from the Westhill Donkeys, Annie and Dainty, along with mulled wine and mince pies for everyone to enjoy.

Dorset Echo: Sarah Parry with her friends and family

Sarah Parry from Weymouth said: "We came down to meet our friends and do something festive. 

"This is our second Christmas in Weymouth so we are really looking to getting into Weymouth's festiveness."

Dorset Echo: Claire Garry with her son Caiden

Claire Garry visited with her son Caiden. This is his second Christmas so Claire wanted to do something special and see the donkeys.

Claire said: "It is nice they are doing this, it is something different and it is good for little ones and everyone else. It is putting me in a Christmassy mood."

Dorset Echo: Vicky Smyth visited with her husband and son

Vicky Smyth attended with her husband and son. She said: "My son has loved the donkeys. It makes you feel Christmassy."