It really was a case of O Come All Ye Faithful to Coverack's switching on of its Christmas lights, as rain made conditions less than desirable.

Villagers have a good track record of surviving adverse weather, however, and plenty of people still turned out for Saturday's Christmas Tree Night.

Children paraded with handmade lanterns down the hill to the tree, where pupils from Coverack School went on the stage to enthusiastically sing Christmas carols and songs.

The lights of the large Christmas tree were switched on by Jane Dunnett, who thanked all those who had attended and those who worked so hard in the village to put on such an impressive display of lights - also noting the exceptional year that Coverack has survived. The large tree was once again donated to the village by Michael Tylor.

With the lights on, Father Christmas arrived in his pony drawn sleigh to give a present to every child that attended.

Illumination Brass Band played Christmas carols, adding to the festive atmosphere, and a team of volunteers worked hard providing hot beef sandwiches for all who attended.

Caroline Beadle, secretary to Coverack Christmas Tree Committee, said: "The team of volunteers who put up Coverack Christmas lights have worked particularly hard this year as there have been a lot of obstacles to overcome – especially as the road along the front has been closed and an area usually used for Christmas lights display is currently a work site.

"Thank you to the team at Glanville Environmental for the hard work making the road accessible so that everyone could come along and enjoy Coverack Christmas lights. Thanks to everyone’s hard work Coverack Christmas lights once again looking stunning."

The event committee not only organises the Christmas lights in the village but also provides donations to help children in the area and ensures there is a gift on the night for every child that attends.

Caroline added: "Thanks to all those who supported and braved the weather on the night, those who bought raffle tickets and a number of very generous donations that the committee have received. Fundraising events put on by the Bay Hotel, The Paris and the Lifeboat House also help Coverack Christmas Lights continue to run each year.

"All support is very much appreciated and goes towards the annual upkeep of Coverack Christmas lights."

The lights will remain on until January 6.