OTTERY capped a day of yuletide fun by switching on its Christmas lights last Friday (November 28).

OTTERY capped a day of yuletide fun by switching on its Christmas lights last Friday (November 28).

Hundreds braved the cold to create a jovial atmosphere and ensure the town's traditional big switch-on and late night shopping extravaganza kicked off the festive season with a bang.

A Christmas Market in The Institute started proceedings and kids were kept entertained throughout the day with competitions galore, including a fancy dress contest, before Ottery Librarian Carol Pentecost treated them to a spot of story-telling in the parish church.

A torchlight procession including Town Crier Dave Retter, the church choir, Crealy Bear and Ottery's carnival queen and princesses then headed to the Convent grounds where crowds joined Master of Ceremonies Roland Sanders and local radio DJ Colin Slade in a switch-on countdown.

Ottery's Town Band and Flaming Morris Dancers were also on hand alongside Santa to boost spirits as the town was lit up with a colourful display.

Viv Abbott, Chairman of the town's chamber of commerce, said a strong turnout and great atmosphere made for a memorable evening. She added: It went brilliantly we had more people than ever and having spoke to other shop owners- they are delighted- numbers are up.

Interest for children was great, with lots of fancy dress and there were masses of shoppers so it was a great evening

A lot of work went into the event but it was well worth it. We are especially pleased that amongst all of the doom and gloom and the credit crunch that it was such a success. People from other towns have asked me how we managed to get so many people there.

I want to thank everybody who cam for supporting it so well".

ENDS