THE streetlights went out in Dunster on Friday and Saturday for the 25th Dunster by Candlelight celebration in aid of St Margaret's Somerset Hospice.

Stiltwalkers led the procession of candle lanterns through the village to start the two-day event, while musicians entertained the crowds in the Yarn Market.

Fire jugglers, animals from Exmoor Zoo and local TV celebrity Johnny Kingdom were also on hand to add to the atmosphere.

Members of Dunster Carollers and Roadwater Singers sang traditional Christmas songs, while the West Somerset Brass Band, Minehead Handbell Ringers and the Blackdown Community Choir all added to the entertainment.

Other highlights included the chance to meet some birds of prey courtesy of Owls R Us in Dunster Tithe Barn, while members of the 1st Dunster Cubs sold freshly-made pancakes, hot chocolate and soup.

Candlelight co-ordinator Jill Homewood thanked everyone who had supported the event.

She said: "This year we had even more for the children, including free balloon swords and hats, a children's trail, circus skills and Exmoor Zoo's creature feature.

"We hope everyone had a fantastic time."

Photos: Steve Guscott