Crowds gathered outside Windsor Castle for carols

Festive crowds gathered around Queen Victoria's statue on Friday for the annual Carols on the Hill service in the shadow of Windsor Castle.

The Band of the Blues and Royals played and a collection was held for Christian Aid and Churches Together homeless project.

Among the readers during the open air service was PCSO David Bullock, who helped founded the homeless project with Baptist minister Mark Richardson.

The Dean of Windsor Right Reverend David Conner delivered the final blessing to crowds who included the Mayor of Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Colin Rayner and Samantha Rayner.

Among the crowds was Hazel Cooper who has helped organise the event in the past with husband Jock. She said: "The weather turned warmer just in time and it did not rain. Who could ask for more?"

See photos from the event below.