Families are being encouraged to take part in lantern workshops ahead of a parade in Cockermouth.

The first workshop is on Saturday at Highfield Community Centre, with a second on November 23, both from 10am to 4pm.

The idea is to make river-themed lanterns for this year’s parade on November 29.

Professional lantern makers Stomping Ground will help make the magical lanterns, inspired by Cockermouth’s flora and fauna including fish, trees, insects, flowers, micro and macro that live around the rivers.

The River Lantern Parade will gather on November 29 at Memorial Gardens car park at 5.30pm and will set off at 6pm.

The Music School Samba band will beat the rhythm and lead the parade through the town, crossing both rivers before ending outside the Town Hall with the sounds of the All Saints Bell ringers and refreshments in the church.

This year Cumbria County, Allerdale Borough Council, Cockermouth and Papcastle Recreational Trust and the Rotary have contributed funding to the community

workshops and parade to make the event free to participants.

Cartmell Shepherd are stewarding the event with new volunteers welcome.

For more information contact the Kirkgate Art Centre on 01900 829966.