SNOWFLAKES, albeit artificial, fell on the hundreds of people packed into Holsworthy’s Square last Friday evening, December 2, to see the Christmas lights switched on, writes Christine Williams.

While they waited for the magic moment there was plenty to see and do. A big attraction were two Finnish reindeer, Prancer aged five and Dancer aged six, bred by Lester Bowker of Cotley Farm, Whimple and, not to be outdone, were two Shetland ponies from Lizzie’s Larder, Peanuts aged nine and Nutmeg aged ten, disguised as reindeer.

There was an opportunity to do some Christmas shopping at the charity and craft stalls with a further 19 stalls in the warmth of the Memorial Hall, and the Lions were dispensing burgers and hot dogs.

Dressed in full regalia and keeping a watchful eye on proceedings was the mayor Jon Hutchings. On the stage, zany comedian and magician Paul Zee entertained and was a great hit with the children whom he involved in his tricks. Then, County Councillor Barry Parsons stepped forward and in velvet tones sang ‘Silent Night’. Meanwhile, the whole event was being broadcast live on BBC Radio Devon’s ‘Drive Time’ programme hosted by Pippa Quelch and Rick Edwards. Finally, the big moment arrived when the two presenters stepped on to the stage and led the countdown to the switch-on when suddenly not only the square, with its Christmas tree and chains of lights, but also adjacent streets were transformed into a wonderland with 55 miniature fairy-lit Christmas trees.

After the Santa Run, in aid of Children’s Hospice South West, Father Christmas himself arrived in the NatWest bank and a queue of children formed to meet him while the musical entertainment continued, provided by Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist and singer Josh Curnow and by ‘The Horse Band’ from Launceston.

For some years Holsworthy has held late-night Christmas shopping and the Christmas lights switch-on on separate evenings. The decision by the town council to combine them on the same evening this year and with the Santa Run was inspired and brought about a wonderful prelude to the festive season.