DESPITE it being only May, fundraising for Mawnan Christmas lights is already under starter's orders with a "horse" racing night raising over £400.

A total of £401 for the Mawnan Christmas Lights was raised at a very enjoyable and successful night on May 5 when the race using horse's heads (not real ones!) was held in Mawnan Village Hall.

The event was well supported with over 60 people taking part in the six races. "Jockeys" moved around the course laid out in the hall through a throw of the dice trying to avoid the obstacles and forfeits.

At the end the horse's heads were auctioned off and the winners had to ride inflatable horses around the course for the final race.

One of the organisers, Caroline Toland, said the event had been very well supported, especially by people who were new to the village.

"On behalf of the committee," she said. "We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who sponsored a race: Meudon Hotel, Casa Juan, Salon in the Square, Cornish Holiday Cottages, Cornish Maid, Goldmartin Garage, Tregelly Heating and Plumbing and the Budock Vean Hotel. And finally, a special thank you to Ginny Smeed and Jane Tully for their help in getting the event organised."