Though rain came later, Holsworthy's late night Christmas shopping evening last Wednesday began with mild, dry weather, attracting a large number of people, a high proportion of them children, into The Square and adjacent streets.

The majority of shops and other businesses, including the museum and Information Centre, were open and served mince pies and mulled wine or coffee, while the Hols­worthy Lions dispensed burgers and hot soup.

Many of the stallholders from the pannier market had stayed on and were joined by others both in the Square and in the Memorial Hall selling Christmas gifts to raise funds for local organisations and charities.

The Town Band played seasonal music and the Majorettes entertained children and parents as they waited to see Father Christmas in his tented grotto in the centre of the Square.

At 8pm the Lions' draw took place and the winners were Mrs Smallacombe, Mrs Joanne Head and Mrs Hendy who received vouchers for £150, £75 and £25 respectively to spend in Holsworthy shops.