They were a familiar sight in the skies over the Lizard Peninsula and now the search and rescue helicopters of RNAS Culdrose will receive their own a tribute from Coverack at this Saturday's Christmas lights switch on.

Often considered to be one of the best displays around, Coverack's lights feature a special addition this year in the form of a six foot by 12 foot rope light, depicting a red and grey helicopter from 771 squadron.

It will be lit up with the rest of the displays at Saturday at Coverack's Christmas Tree Night, starting at 6.30pm.

This will also include a torchlight procession through the village led by Father Christmas and the Illumination Brass brand for the switching on of the village tree lights, followed by a barbecue and stalls.

The new light is thanks to an idea from Margaret Oxford in the village, recognising the rescues carried out by the squadron since 1974 up to its disbandment earlier this year, as well as its work in the community.

Villager John Campbell said: "It was a regular occasion on Christmas Day that the duty Sea King from Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose would fly over the harbour. Often the aircrewman would be dressed as one of Santa’s many helpers; it was a real treat for the children."