THE first Sunday in December traditionally sees a magical, free to attend event held annually in Dulverton, and this year is no exception.

Dulverton by Starlight will be held from 2 pm to 7 pm on December 7, with an opening by Merlin the wizard and closing with a spectacular fireworks display.

The festival has become a crowning jewel in Exmoor’s winter events calendar with plenty to keep the whole family busy with seasonal fun.

Shops will be open from lunchtime and the main Fore Street will be closed to traffic and filled with stalls selling local crafts, food, and drink.

There will be an indoor Christmas market in Dulverton’s iconic Town Hall and roaming entertainers will juggle, bubble, and amuse visitors throughout the afternoon.

People can meet Elf Off the Shelf, Mysterious Merlin, Captain Coconut, West Somerset Morris dancers, the Rackenford Rascals Brass Band, and the Mid Devon Singers.

Children can visit Father Christmas in his grotto in Dulverton Heritage Centre and have their faces painted while they wait.

Visitors can fully join in the festive spirit by singing favourite carols around a huge Christmas tree in Bank Square from 5.45 pm, and then watch the fireworks display as the sparkles burst over the roof of All Saints Church from 6.15 pm.

Dulverton Town Council will pay for free parking in car parks on the three Saturdays running up to Christmas, on December 6, 13, and 20, while Dulverton by Starlight will pay for free parking on ‘Starlight Sunday’ (December 7).

There are raffle prizes to be won, which have been given by generous individuals and small businesses around Dulverton.

The committee thanked sponsors GC Stanbury, Remote Therapies, Woods Bar and Restaurant, Exmoor Distillery, Risdons Solicitors, Seddons Estate Agents, Westcars of Tiverton, and The Tantivy.

Full details can be found on the Visit Dulverton website.