CROWDS braved freezing temperatures and biting rain to see Dunster turn on some Christmas charm.

The fierce winter weather may have been an unwelcome backdrop for the annual Dunster by Candlelight celebrations but it failed to snuff out the village's sparkle.

Organisers admitted the cold and wet did deter some visitors on the opening night last Friday.

But the crowds were out in force the following evening to enjoy a wealth of entertainment and attractions.

The event kicked off with the traditional lantern lighting procession that wound its way through the streets to mark the official opening.

And there was no shortage of entertainment and attractions to keep visitors amused, from Minehead's handbell ringers to fire jugglers and samba drummers, as well as a special appearance by Exmoor-based wildlife expert and local television personality Johnny Kingdon.

Candlelight chairman Robin Dasgupta said the weather had been bitterly cold but people had still enjoyed the event.

"Unfortunately, the rain began prematurely early on the Friday evening but the number of people attending on Saturday certainly made up for it," he said.

"It was a great success and we were generally very pleased with how things went.

"You can't legislate for the weather and you just have to take the rough with the smooth."

Organisers are still totting up the money raised but expect to have the final figure by early next week, with all the profits going, as always, to the Somerset St Margaret's Hospice.

Mr Dasgupta said the success of the event was a fitting lead up to 2011 when 'Candlelight' would celebrate its 25th anniversary.

"We hope to raise record amounts for the hospice and provide some very special celebrations to mark the milestone."