THE Exmoor rain eased up on Sunday (December 7) as the annual Dulverton by Starlight warmed up.

The town was filled with laughter and cheers with the arrival of Father Christmas and Captain Coconut with his magical crew, who helped keep everybody in the festive spirit.

There was plenty of shopping going on in the market stalls in the Town Hall, and outside in the street and in the shops which stayed open until late.

As the daylight faded, the town showed its true sparkle with trees and shop windows dressed in white lights.

Pupils from Dulverton Junior School joined the Rackenford Rascals Brass Band by the large Christmas tree in a packed Bank Square for some traditional carol singing.

The Starlight event’s evening firework finale, always spectacular, seemed this year to be even more spectacular than usual and provided the ‘wow factor’ as All Saints’ Church was highlighted with a golden glow and a chorus of ‘oos’ and ‘aahs’ from the watching crowds.

There was free parking for the day paid for by the Starlight committee, while Dulverton Town Council is paying for free parking in the town’s car parks on the remaining Saturdays running up to Christmas, on December 13 and 20.

A festival spokesperson said: “Thank you to all the visitors, local and from afar, who came to make Dulverton by Starlight the community event that it is.

“There were many smiles and happy faces that brightened up a somewhat damp day.

“Thanks also go to the traders of Dulverton, sponsors, and the committee for working together to keep this wonderful event happening each year.

“If you missed the fun this year, be sure to put it in your diary for 2026.

“Always the first Sunday in December, next year’s Dulverton by Starlight is Sunday, December 6.”