CROWDS of people from across the county gathered in the streets for the return of Winchester Mayfest.

The festival, which celebrates the rite of spring, saw 37 groups of Morris dancers bring their skills to the city centre.

Throughout the day, the groups could be seen at locations, including the Buttercross, the High Street and Square.

festival director Kathie Knell, said: “With the dancing across the city, the city was a-buzz!

“Winchester Mayfest displayed the huge variety of styles of Morris dancing from the different traditions found across England – Cotswold, Border and North West clog. Within each style there are traditional dances from different villages so there will be plenty of variety; from traditional to the culturally on-trend!”

She added: “A big thank you to The Great Hall who provided a truly iconic setting to our traditional displays.”