FALMOUTH dodged the worst of stormy weather to enjoy a spectacular Christmas lights switch-on on Thursday evening.

Schoolchildren formed up at Events Square to parade with lanterns through the town to arrive at The Moor, where a stage was set up as the focal point of proceedings.

Pirate FM breakfast presenter Lucy Start compered as children who had been in the parade took it in turns to perform Christmas songs on the stage in front of a packed crowd.

It was then time for the big moment.

RNLI lifeboat coxswain Jonathon Blakeston was voted by the public to switch on the lights as the community’s champion.

He was selected for his commitment to saving lives at sea and for his voluntary work in the community.

Jonathon stepped onto the stage to push the plunger, after a countdown from the crowd, to light up The Moor and the rest of the town with an array of colourful lights that will be the backdrop of the festive season's activities for the next month.

Speaking ahead of the switch-on, Jonathon said: “It’s not something I would have even conceived of doing.

“I see it as a bit of a nod of recognition, not just for me, but for the whole station.”

After switching on the lights, Jonathon plans to enjoy Christmas with his friends and family.

“It’s family time, just a chance to sit back, relax and reflect and spend time with the ones who are important to you,” he said.

Once the lights were on the crowds were treated to more entertainment, with dancing on the stage from Scruffy Mutt Dance Company, and were then able to enjoy the first of the town's late night shopping events.