STROUD was a riot of colour and noise this weekend with the return of the midwinter Wassail.

Yesterday, the town came alive with wassail songs, colourful costumes, music, Morris dancing, and historic traditional characters.

“Our aim is to keep alive an ancient local custom, to bring a bit of fun and enjoyment into one of the darkest and most miserable times of year and, along the way, boost trade and community spirit and help to support local charities,” said Stroud Wassail chairman Robin Burton.

Photographer Simon Pizzey was on hand to capture all the action.