THE weather didn't stop the festivities as the village of Mawnan Smith switched on its Christmas lights on Friday evening.

Despite gusting winds and lashing rain, villagers crowded into the square to count down, along with Santa, to the switch-on at 6pm.

Santa then returned to his grotto to the delight of all the children who were queuing up to meet him.

There was plenty on offer to entertain everyone, with carols sung by the children from Mawnan School, hair and nail decorations at the Salon in the Square, shopping at the Cornwall Hospice shop, craft making at Smart Penguin Studio and Christmas decorations for sale at the Cornish Maid cafe.

There were also plenty of refreshments – the ladies from Mawnan WI were there to provide warming mulled wine and mince pies, Casa Juan served up their delicious paella, the Mawnan Scouts provided doughnuts, and the cafe and other stalls offered pancakes and hot chocolate.

Ginny Smeed, secretary of Mawnan Christmas Lights Committee, said: "It was an immensely enjoyable evening and it is thanks to everyone in the village who helped with the planning, putting up of lights, decorations and equipment for the evening.

"Thanks also go to Brandon Tool Hire and Cornish Holiday Cottages, who very kindly donated equipment and facilities."