THE people of Watchet turned out in force to greet Father Christmas when he visited the town on Christmas Eve to meet the children and present trophies and prizes for the annual illuminations competition.

He travelled all over Watchet, starting at Cherry Tree Way and ?nishing at Lorna Doone, accompanied by Carnival Queen Alisha Helm and her attendant Honey Filer.

They and Santa’s other helpers distributed sweets to children who came out to see him and present letters with their Christmas wishes, while people also gave the festive helpers refreshments during the long journey.

On his tour, Santa Claus presented the trophies and prizes for Watchet Live’s annual illuminations competition.

“As always, the judges had great difficulty in deciding the winners from all of the beautifully-lit houses,” said Lesley Abbott-Garner, one of the event organisers.

“Well done to everyone who took part and decorated their homes and shops to make Watchet sparkle.”

Results and lots of photos in Friday’s Free Press (January 4).