Spectacular Stithians lantern parade: PICTURES

The lanterns themselves were similarly comparable to those in the City of Lights event, this year fitting the theme of “constellations.” This led to crabs and fish joining stars and other astrological creations, all made from withy (willow sticks) and tissue paper.

The village came out in force for the event, with families lining the route of the parade that featured 40 lanterns from pupils at the village primary school, plus more from members of the rainbows, brownies and guides, beavers, cubs and scouts.

It is hoped that even more community groups will get involved next year.

Kate Beesley, who ran the lantern making workshops and was one of the event organisers, said: “It was absolutely fantastic. It’s a really Cornish thing, winter lantern |processions. It’s about people meeting up and group’s getting together that maybe don’t know each other. It’s great fun.”

The event was started in 2008 when Kate was asked by Cath Cullan to run a workshop at the school, as pupils did not take part in the Truro festival.

That year there were 20 lanterns and the event proved hugely popular, |leading to a larger event the following year with a road closure and St Stythians Band getting involved.

Due to the cold weather the band was unable to take part this year, but Samba Celtica was on hand to liven up proceedings with their samba beats.

Organising the event alongside Kate each year is Steve and Alison Brown, and Vanessa Boden and her husband Stuart.

Kate added that the parade received “huge support” from the school, saying: “They’re really crucial in keeping the whole thing together.”