CAROL singers, festive mince pies and mulled wine brought the spirit of Christmas to the Dickensian Evening in Tavistock last Friday, despite less-than-ideal shopping weather.

The turnout was 'really encouraging', according to chairman of Tavistock and District Chamber of Commerce, Nigel Eadie.

There were visitors from further afield than usual, which Mr Eadie thought was due to an advertising campaign on a local radio station.

'Although overall attendance was 10 to 15 per cent down on previous years, this was still really encouraging in view of the recession and the weather,' he said.

'It was an absolutely fantastic evening. The number of people that were involved was good and every business in the town was open.'

He said most businesses had had an 'exceptional' time on Friday, with new customers.

Although there was no window dressing competition this year, shops had still entered into the spirit of the event and staff at many were dressed in Victorian costume.

Street entertainment included Morris dancers, a stilt walker, a unicyclist and local music groups.

Cllr Alison Clish-Green, mayor of West Devon, was out and about visiting businesses, dressed in her official gown and chains, with consort, daughter Kirsty. She was accompanied by the deputy mayor of Tavistock, Cllr David Whitcomb, with his wife Sue.

The Christmas tree festival in St Eustachius Church provided an extra attraction, as it was open on the night to entrance visitors.

Mr Eadie said the chamber was 'really appreciative' of the businesses that made a financial contribution, but he appealed for more to make a donation to reduce the outstanding amount.

'The Dickensian Evening is such a fantastic opportunity to advertise all that is unique and special about the town,' he said.

The evening drew to a festive musical climax with a carol service in Bedford Square, led by priest-in-charge of the parish church, the Rev Michael Brierley.