THE spirit of Christmas was alive and well in West Somerset and Santa Claus was much in evidence.

People gave generously to charities, the homeless and the lonely were catered for, and homes and businesses created a sense of magic as they sparkled with Christmas lights.

On Christmas Day, special meals were laid on both for homeless people and those who would otherwise have spent the day alone.

And on Christmas Eve, children and adults were out in force as Santa announced Watchet’s Christmas illuminations competition result.

Nearly 30 people who might otherwise have been alone enjoyed a special Christmas dinner at the recently refurbished Watchet Phoenix Centre.

The guests were served and entertained in traditional Christmas style, with chef Martin Summers and his wife Sarah volunteering to do the cooking, volunteers serving, and even Santa Claus putting in an appearance in the afternoon with gifts for everyone.

In Minehead, homeless people and others who would have been on their own at Christmas were treated to a traditional festive meal organised by West Somerset councillor Bryan Leaker and a team of volunteers.

The lunch, held at Millbridge Church, is usually organised by Mary Neighbour and volunteers, but Bryan asked if he could step in when she was unable to do it this time, in memory of local nurse Gill Styles who died this year.

Together with his son Ben and volunteers, they provided a meal for 35 people in the community.

Photos and full story in the Free Press