Portland will sparkle tonight for the annual Christmas celebration.

The town council and partners are holding the Portland Christmas Sparkle in and around Easton Gardens and Easton Methodist Hall today from 5pm-9pm.

With performances from Island Voices, Frome Valley Mummers, and Royal Manor Theatre, the event promises to be a feast for the senses with entertainment, music, food and games for everyone to enjoy.

Activities will be taking place in and around the gardens. Walking For Health are holding a torchlight procession from St George's Church and The Grove – arriving at All Saints Church for their Carols by Candlelight service and Portland Library is open for children’s craft and quiz time. There will also be some fabulous craft stalls in Community 2000 for those looking for that unique Christmas gift along with a variety of Christmas stalls in Easton Gardens.

Father Christmas will be making an appearance courtesy of the Rotary Club to help the community get in the holiday spirit and there will be traditional Christmas fun including a merry go round, tin can alley, hoopla and splat the rat - plus a homemade mince pie bake off.

Easton Methodist Church will be providing refreshments to warm the spirits and hosting Messy Christmas crafts for children of all ages. Local shops and cafés will be open too to welcome in the Christmas shoppers.