THERE were a few anxious faces but it was third time lucky for the Christmas in Crediton Light Switch On ceremony last Thursday evening!

More than 200 people took part in a stunning parade from the St Lawrence Green to the town square and an estimated 500 people had gathered by the time the ceremony began.

Father Christmas, who arrived in style in a Model T Ford car, Cllr Frank Letch, the Mayor of Crediton and Mayoress, Mrs Natalia Letch and Isla Dymond (6), from Deep Lane, Crediton, were there to perform the Lights Switch-On with the countdown led by Radio Exe presenter, Ashley Jeary.

First there was the rehearsal countdown from 10 to zero and then a second attempt, but no - the thousands of lights on the massive 30ft tree in the town square remained dark.

After some laughter and looks of concern among the volunteers who co-ordinated the ceremony, the third countdown resulted in the lights coming on, much to the relief of organisers and cheers from the crowd who watched.

The evening had begun with many groups and individuals gathering at the Green in preparation for the parade.

There were many in costume, flag bearers carrying the impressive flags from the summer project, people carrying "snowflakes" which had been made by Crediton Arts Centre and a band of musicians.

The parade, under the guidance of volunteer marshals and two members of Crediton Police, made its way down through the town on the pavement and into North Street before arriving at the square.

As the parade went down through the town, the lights came on on the 50 trees on shop and business fronts and the huge cross-street decoration lit up, the first such decoration for 40 years.

Crediton Town Band provided welcoming seasonal music at the town square and then there was a speech by the Mayor.

Father Christmas arrived to join the proceedings before helping with the lights ceremony.

After the lights were lit on the tree, Father Christmas gave away sweets to children and many photos were taken of the "wow" factor illuminated tree.

Crediton Town Councillor Liz Hocking, chairman of the Crediton Lights Working Group, which co-ordinated Christmas in Crediton this year, said: "Very many thanks to everyone for all the work that went into the Switch-on and first Late-night shopping event.

"What a great turn-out from the town and what an excellent evening's activities they saw throughout the High Street and in the square.

"Special thanks to the Town Clerk, Clare Dalley, for dealing with the unforeseen hitches during the last week in her inimitable (and highly effective) manner.

"The best thing is the team pulling together and making all the elements come together.

To see more pictures and the full story please see issue 958. Available at outlets or online for PC, MAC, iPad, iPhone and Android.