PORLOCK was packed with shoppers and Santas last Saturday, as the village celebrated its late night shopping and Santa Festival event.

The annual event saw a host of entertainment, including stiltwalkers Jack Frost and the Snow Queen, Santa in his sleigh, West Somerset Brass Band, free face painting, live music, festive cocktails, cake stalls, plus a Santa Dash through the village.

Shops and businesses opened their doors until 8.30pm to give residents and visitors the chance to have a festive browse, and enjoy drinks and nibbles on offer.

The Santa Festival winners were also announced, after local businesses, accommodation providers and eateries joined in the fun of making their own Santas for a special Santa Trail.

There are 24 Santas displayed on the trail, with leaflets available at shops in the high street. They will stay in place until the end of December.

Top prize went to The Ship Inn with its ‘Santa’s Grotty Bar’ display. Joint second place went to ‘The Christmas Party’ by Mrs Jackson’s Victorian Tea Rooms and ‘Santa Potter goes to Hogwarts’ by Myrtle Cottage B&B, while third place was scooped by ‘Merry Christmas Porlock’ by St Dubricius First School.

Mre photos in today’s Free Press.