CROWDS of people gathered in the picturesque village of Clovelly for its grand Christmas lights switch on.

The festivities, in aid of the RNLI, had a nautical theme this year with a lighted boat representing a clipper ship moored at the quayside.

The boat's lights were switched on by two-year-old Luke Wright when darkness fell on Sunday.

Eleven-year-old Nicola Perham of Clovelly Primary School performed the honours and switched on the entire village Christmas lights after winning a competition to design a cover for the hymn sheets with her festive village scene.

Lanterns had been made by Clovelly schoolchildren for a procession which made its way down the cobbles from the Visitor Centre to the harbour.

They were joined by Santa, Appledore Junior Band, Torridge Male Voice Choir and the Clovelly RNLI crew in singing carols.

The traditional Christmas story was told and readings were given.

A hot punch, a beach hog roast, mince pies and treats for the children followed, and the evening finished with a grand firework display.

Vivien Foster, chairman of the Clovelly Lifeboat Fundraisers, said: "It was absolutely fantastic and it didn't rain — the only slot in the whole week.

"The crowds came out and it was one of the best attended Christmas events - a real family afternoon and all for the children.

"We were absolutely delighted, it was a huge success, and I would like to thank everyone who contributed, including Norman Sanders who puts the lights up every year."

Plans are already underway for next year's tenth anniversary celebrations.