A HAMPSHIRE town eagerly greeted Santa with his traditional arrival in the town last night (December 12).

For some 60 years Father Christmas has entranced children by arriving in Broad Street and handing out presents a couple of weeks early.

The street is closed off and the hundreds-strong crowds sing carols before his arrival.

The event is organised every year by the Alresford Pigs Association that raises money for local good causes.

This Saturday the town Rotary club is holding a Christmas tree sale in Broad Street starting at 8.15am.