THIS week’s Cardigan lantern parade celebrates the Year of the Sea and promises to be bigger, brighter and better than ever.

Now in its third year, the parade will take place from Pendre down the High Street to the castle, on Friday (December 7), from 7pm.

The event has proved extremely popular in the last couple of years, drawing thousands of visitors to the town centre, with local businesses staying open to add to the festive feel.

The parade has once again be pulled together by Small World Theatre, which has secured funding from the Big Lottery Fund.

"This year we will be celebrating Visit Wales' Year of the Sea and we have been creating giant lantern structures reflecting that theme, as well as hundreds of smaller lanterns for a spectacular procession," said Small World Theatre marketing manager Sam Vicary.

"We are looking to build on the success of the last couple of years both in the numbers taking part and in the thousands who come into the town to spectate, making it even bigger, brighter and better.

"And to keep with the sea theme we will also be bringing small World Theatre's sea monster Cragen to the party.

"She will be making a special illuminated presence on the River Teifi at Prince Charles Quay, marking the end of our clean seas campaign and highlighting the plastic-free message."

One of the key elements of the parade has been the lantern-making workshops, which has once again proved extremely popular with both individuals and local groups and organisations.