DESPITE the forecast of heavy rain, which didn’t materialise, Crediton’s Christmas Lights Switch-On event went ahead and was a huge success.

Spirits were not dampened by a few light showers as there was packed programme to entertain everyone from 2pm to 6pm in the Town Square.

More than 85 lanterns were made by children in workshops at local schools and with Crediton Scouts, Brownies and Youth Club members and during the afternoon prior to the lantern procession.

There was also flag making for the children during the afternoon.

Stilt walkers and Elves and a Reindeer toured the Town Square to entertain people.

They enabled people to have a “Selfie with an Elf”.

Otter Morris kicked off proceedings followed by Punch and Judy who entertained the children.

School choirs from Landscore and Hayward’s sang Christmas tunes which were enjoyed by a large crowd of people.

There was music from The Turning Tides Project and speeches by the Town Crier Kevin Payne and Mayor of Crediton, Cllr Elizabeth Brookes-Hocking.

They led the Lantern procession from North Street to Market Street where the Grand Parade started.

This made its way into the Town Square watched by hundreds of people.

Compere Stu Wight led the search for Father Christmas who waved to the crowd when found.

Mr Wight then led the countdown for the Switch-On of the lights, which everyone joined in with.

Switching on the lights were The Mayor of Crediton accompanied by Hilary Hamilton, wife of Peter, the late founder of Christmas in Crediton some years ago.

They were joined by Crediton Youth Club member Fern Cram (12) and Crediton Guide Jessica Mellor (13).

There was a round of applause when the giant Christmas tree was lit up.

Music by the band “Lost and Found” rounded off the evening’s entertainment.

People were also able to enjoy refreshments from a number of stalls and local businesses.

Many visited Crediton High Street to shop and view the lights, including the new cross-street lights and those on business and shop fronts, all supplied by the Crediton Town Council Christmas in Crediton committee.