GRAB your winter warmers – Christmas has officially launched in Winchester with the opening of the market and ice rink.

Set in the picturesque surroundings of the cathedral more than 60 traders will spend the next month selling their wares from wooden chalets complete with festive decorations.

At its heart the ice rink will see family and friends alike attempt to stay upright. It is open until January 4, with numerous sessions from 11am until 7.30pm Monday to Friday, and 10am until 7.30pm Saturday and Sunday.

Both the market and ice rink opened yesterday (NOV 20), and the market runs until December 21.

It is open from 10am until 6pm, Sunday to Wednesday, and 10.30am-7.30pm Thursday to Saturday.

Last night saw crowds sip mulled wine and sing carols as the lights at the medieval Kingsgate were switched on.

Earlier this month some 6,000 people packed The Broadway for the sparkling launch of the city’s lights, which saw dancers from Intergr8, the Winchester Military Wives Choir and Theatre Royal actors all grace the stage.

Tonight up to 2,000 people are expected to turn up to the cathedral’s Outer Close for the lantern brigade.

Two hundred hand-crafted lanterns will be carried down the centre of the Nave, led by Japanese drummers, before welcoming The Dean and the blessing of the Christmas tree.

The lanterns were crafted at workshops with Bella Crafts, at their Fair Oak and Romsey sites.