CREDITON Town Square was filled to capacity during the evening of Saturday, November 25, for the Christmas in Crediton Lights Switch-On event.

Sophie Green (6), from Copplestone, was the winner of the Hunt the Elf competition and her prize was to switch on this year's lights.

She was assisted by her father Rory and event compere, Stu Wight.

Everyone took part in the countdown and there was delight as the lights on the giant Christmas tree and around the square came on.

Prior to that it was a case of find Father Christmas, this year he appeared from the balcony of R and G Barbers, waving to the hundreds of people in the square.

A delightful lantern parade took place beforehand.

Dozens of lanterns were made at craft sessions at local schools and with youth groups led by artist Charlotte Turner.

Crediton Scouts cart looked splendid and Otter Morris also took part, the parade led by the Mayor of Crediton, Cllr Liz Brookes-Hocking and the Town Crier, Kevin Payne.

The event began at 2pm with the opening by the Mayor and Town Crier and a thought-provoking music and acting scene by members of The Turning Tides Project.

In addition to music and dancing by Otter Morris there were performances by Sandford Sings and School Choirs.

The School Choirs concluded with a combined rendition of "We wish you a Merry Christmas".

Entertainers included a Snow King and Queen, Punch and Judy and Jack Frost.

There were food and drink stalls and Crediton Youth Club also had a stall.

Many children enjoyed colouring and puppet making classes at the Sustainable Crediton Hub and making wrapping paper at a stall on the square.

Buskers entertained in Crediton High Street during the afternoon.

Roads were closed in the area of the Town Square, the roadblocks supervised by volunteers.

Crediton High Street was busy into the evening with Late Night Shopping meaning it was a very busy afternoon and evening in the High Street.

The event was a huge success, thanks to Crediton Town Council and the Christmas in Crediton Sub-Committee.

In addition, thanks must also go to the town Projects Officer Jo Davey, Town Clerk Rachel Avery, Deputy Clerk Emma Anderson and volunteer Town Councillors.

Others who contributed greatly were Crediton Arts Centre, Crediton Rugby Club volunteers, electricians Jo Ward Ian Rogers and and sponsor Hedgerow Print.

The event was a credit to all who helped in any way.

The local "Red Dirt Band" entertained before and after the Lights Switch-On and were enjoyed by the large crowd.

The Christmas in Crediton committee and Crediton Town Council has put up 120 trees and illuminations on shop and business fronts in the High Street and other areas of the town.

In addition to the wonderful display in the Town Square, it has also created a wonderful display again at St Lawrence Green.