Tiverton set for Christmas

Santa makes unexpected stop

Father Christmas has made an unscheduled visit to Tiverton, less than a month before he gets down to some serious travelling.

Mr Claus was a surprise guest of honour at the town's Christmas lights switch-on on Saturday evening.

Tiverton's Pannier Market prepared space for a festive grotto, as thousands of people headed for the Mid Devon festive event.

Hosted by Radio Exe's Ashely Jeary, with lights switched on by Tiverton current mayoress Cllr Sue Griggs, and former mayor Cllr Colin Slade, who is also a Radio Exe presenter.

The event was such a success, Father Christmas has agreed to return next Saturday for the all-new Tiverton farmers' market.

Mr Jeary said: "We had such a warm welcome on a cold night, and the town's traders and council had worked so hard to make the night a success - with music from Tiverton Town Band and Tiverton Operatic Society and so many more.

"Wherever people are in Devon, we want people to support their local traders where they can, especially this Christmas after such a tough year for everyone."

Tiverton turned out for lights switch-on