THE countdown to Christmas in Tavistock begins tomorrow night (Friday) with the switching on of the festive lights throughout the town centre.

At 7pm the Trees of Light in Bedford Square will be switched on.

These lights, organised each year by the Lions Club of Tavistock, are sponsored by members of the public, in memory of departed loved ones.

This will be followed by the switch-on of the lights throughout the town centre.

This year, the countdown will be carried out by pupils from St Rumon's Infants School.

It will also mark the start of a Santas' Fun Run along Plymouth Road, and back along West Street.  

The run, organised by Tavistock Athletic Club, a new addition to the event, will raise money not only for the club, but also for the Help For Heroes charity.