RESIDENTS gathered to witness the start of Christmas in Boscastle at the weekend.

The village Christmas tree was lit up and carols were sung around it while residents enjoyed mulled wine and mince-pies.

This was the tenth tree to be put up in the harbour. The first Christmas tree was raised there in 2004 after the flood on August 16 of that year.

The Rev Mike Parsons led the carol singing with Maria Nichols accompanying on the keyboard.

Mr Parsons said: "We would like to thank the chamber of commerce for supplying the tree and lights, the Cobweb for the — we sang so much better after this — and mince-pies, and the Spar shop for allowing us to use their electricity.

"An enjoyable time, although a little chilly, was had by both young and old."

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.