The glowing torches were matched only by the smiles that lit up the faces of participants in this year’s Porthleven Torchlight Procession.

The event has cemented itself as a firm favourite in the port’s calendar, with an estimated 500 to 600 people taking part last week, despite the bad weather.

Although there was rain before and after the procession, participants were lucky enough to catch a break in the weather and remain relatively dry as they walked through the streets of Porthleven carrying lit torches.

It also meant Porthleven Town Band could lead the parade; they also played tunes before and after the procession, as everyone gathered outside the Harbour Inn at the end.

The aim of the evening is to raise money for charity, with collecting buckets taken en route. This year beneficiary will be Cornwall Hospice Care, with any surplus from the sale of the torches going to Porthleven’s skate park.

The event was resurrected two years ago by the Porthleven Community Group, following a four-year break when the previous organiser became too ill to continue.

Rob John, chairman of the community group, said: “Last year was lovely sunshine on bank holiday – this year less so. However, it did not stop the good citizens of Porthleven from coming in their many hundreds.

“I think everyone felt it went really, really well. If it had been better weather we would have been even more blessed, but it didn’t stop everyone from coming to support it.”

He thanked the town council for providing a grant towards the event, with mayor Daniel Williams and deputy Barbara Powell taking part in the procession.

He also thanked the Harbour Inn for hosting the band and providing a gazebo, the band itself, the Four Crows gallery for selling torches in advance, and all the many helpers who marshalled the event and sold torches.

Mr John added: “It’s a tradition now, almost. Porthleven loves it to pieces and we’re duty bound now – we’ll be doing it every year, come hail or shine.”

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet: