Although it was vastly different than previous years, Axminster made sure there was plenty of Christmas spirit when traders kept their shops open late despite the COVID-19 restrictions.

Last evening Totally Locally Axminster, the organisation which promotes independent traders, co-ordinated a much reduced festive evening but with good support from the town.

Former mayor Mervyn Symes arranged for music in Trinity Square, Dough Boys provided a food van and The Minster Church played host to Father Christmas handing out presents for local children and organised the singing of carols.

Afterwards, Totally Locally organiser Barre Hedges thanked all those who gave their support and assistance.

He said: "You did us proud people of Axminster. Thank you so much for supporting your independent traders tonight in our Christmas late opening.

"Massive thank-yous to Mervyn Symes and his happy crew for the music, to the Rev Clive Sedgewick and his carol singers, to Santa for being so much fun and to Josh Castree and Seaton Tramway for winging him in from the North Pole."