MODBURY switched-on its Christmas lights in style last week, with shops opening late, street entertainment, food, drink and, of course, Father Christmas.

With the main road closed for the annual Christmas parade, Church Street was bustling with people soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Modbury’s May Fair royal family and Father Christmas led the procession in a vintage bus, followed by local children carrying lanterns and the Plymouth Pipes and Drums band.

At the bottom of the town, the town crier and the vicar said a few words, before the lights were switched-on, as rockets were set off behind the White Hart Inn, heralding the start of the Christmas season in the town.

After the parade, the shops and pubs stayed open, and people took the opportunity for some Christmas shopping.

Keeping the crowds entertained, there was a juggler, the Kingsmen Barbershop Harmony Chorus along with other local choirs, who serenaded everyone with Christmas tunes to create a beautiful festive atmosphere.

Village Voice correspondent, Nicky Shepley said: ‘It was extremely good, and the weather was dry so there was a really good turn-out. ‘Most of the shops stayed open late, so that really got people in the mood for Christmas.

‘Along with the May Fair, the Christmas lights switch-on is the big social event in Modbury. There was such a lovely atmosphere this year.’

The Modbury Lights Committee, who organise the event, would like to thank ‘the many volunteers who help to make Christmas in Modbury possible.’