The streets of Calstock were illuminated by a myriad of lanterns last Thursday evening (December 16) when the new village of lights event took place.

Led by Eco artist and art teacher Chrissy Wallis (pictured right) and flanked by Cornwall’s Rubber Band, village residents of all ages brought their handmade lanterns of different shapes and sizes to a procession around the village, passing all of the village’s advent windows en route. The route started at the school, proceeded to underneath the viaduct, circled the Boot Inn and finished down at the Quay.

Chrissy planned and organised the procession; she hosted a lantern making workshop in the village just two weeks prior, where attendees crafted their own lanterns under her artistic guidance. For those who couldn’t attend the workshop, kits were provided so others could make theirs at home.

Musical director of the band Rosie Fierek chose to play ‘Liskeard Fair’ and ‘Bodmin Riding Blues’ - very traditional songs which were played at Christmas time 30 years ago in the village in a time of great collective festivities.

With the event having captivated the village’s attention on the night, Chrissy hopes this will now become an annual event.

Calstock resident Janet Simpson said: ‘This entire event was Chrissy’s brainchild. Without her, none of this would have happened. She put a huge smile on everyone’s face.’