THERE was a much welcomed gap in the clouds for Tavistock's Dickensian Evening last Friday.

Bookended between days of relentless rain the event looked like it was doomed to be a washout — but in the end the celebration defied the elements.

Colourful costumes and imaginative window displays — together with the cheery Christmas lights provided by Tavistock Lions — ensured that the evening was a crowd pleaser.

With shopkeepers and staff entering into the spirit of the occasion customers flocked into town to indulge in some atmospheric shopping.

The event was organised by the Tavistock and District Chamber of Commerce. Executive member Philip Hartnoll said the chamber was delighted with the way things had gone.

'We are a completely new committee this year. I'd like to thank past members who came and assisted,' said Mr Hartnoll.

'It is good for entertainment and good for business. The event is also a chance for a bit of mid-winter celebrating.

'We are planning for next year and aim to make it event better now that we have done this one.'

Mr Hartnoll praised the 'big effort' that the traders made to ensure the evening's success.

He also said a lot of people had come in from surrounding villages.

l Batemans the opticians won the best dressed window competition, and winner of the best dressed staff was Hobbits in Paddon's Row.