THE streets of Abingdon came alive with music and entertainment as locals celebrated a spring festival.

A jazz quartet, Punch and Judy show - pictured with Tony Drewitt - morris men and Scottish dancers took turns to please the crowds for the launch of the Abingdon in Bloom competition.

The festival in Market Place saw hundreds of people turn out for the event.

Sandra Hill, deputy town clerk, said the festival was a community event and everyone had got involved.

She said shops and traders were selling locally grown produce and plants, and several Abingdon groups also took part.

"There was lots of children's entertainment, including a climbing wall," she said. "A couple of the councillors tried to get to the top, but didn't make it. Everyone was having a go.

"Basically it is an event for the whole community."

Abingdon has previously won a silver gilt award in the regional In Bloom competition, but this year is aiming for gold.