CAMELFORD Town Council was delighted with the success of this year’s winter festival, which saw Camelford and its skies being lit up for Christmas.

Mayor, Rob Rotchell, and Jon Cleave from Fisherman’s Friends officially switched on the lights, followed by an amazing firework display courtesy of Celebration Pyrotechnics and with thanks to Jonathan Smeeth for the use of his field.

Esther Greig, town clerk, said: “This was my first winter festival as clerk of Camelford Town Council, and I was thoroughly impressed by how hard everyone worked to make this a success. It was lovely to see so many people support this event by turning up to join in the fun.

“Our thanks go to the lighting team, who have spent many hours on the lights ensuring they are safe and in good working order, the events working group, chaired by Kirsty Ferguson, and local businesses for organising entertainment and food and drinks stalls.”

Earlier in the day, senior citizens enjoyed a wonderful Christmas meal courtesy of Peggy Ellison and Kirsty Ferguson, who provided more than 200 mince pies.

Thanks have been extended to Cllr Rotchell, Cllr Andy Shaw, Cllr Aaron Dawe, Cllr Claire Hewlett, Cllr Ferguson, Cllr Mike Coombes and Cllr Shirley Goodman, who helped with the lunch.

The lunch was accompanied by the choir of Camelford Primary School, and thanks were given to Lucy Brindley and her choir for bringing extra Christmas cheer to the event.

The day also saw the culmination of 24 Year 10 students’ hard work on a photography project, organised by Amanda Musgrave, deputy town clerk, and Gerard McMahon from Sir James Smith’s School.

Cllrs Shaw and Hewlett judged all the entries, together with Ms Musgrave.

Cllr Hewlett said: “We were really stunned by the quality of the photography and it was really difficult to come to a decision. But a winner needed to be chosen, and their photography stood out because of the quality, creativity and eye for detail. It was also clear that the winner took time to visit different locations within the parish and therefore best fulfilled our brief of promoting Camelford.”

The winners were announced by Jon Cleave from Fisherman’s Friends. First prize went to Harvey Robinson, who won a £100 Amazon voucher, followed by Caitlin Sleep in second place with a £50 Amazon voucher and Charlotte Harries in third place, who won a £25 Amazon voucher.

Highly commended for their photography were Max Vince for his brilliant photo of Roughtor and Lewie Nicholls for his waterfall photo.

Harvey will be working with Camelford Town Council to photograph all events during the year, and provide photography to update the website and other marketing material to promote Camelford and the town council’s work.