IT may have rained but it did not deter people from joining in the fun and spirit of Edwardian evening in Okehampton last Thursday, writes Alison Stephenson.

Traders have since reported good takings and visitors to the town were impressed by the strong community atmosphere.

Townsfolk sinking into their armchairs and putting their feet up by the fire were encouraged to come out of their homes for an evening of festive activities by the visiting town criers of Tavistock and Liskeard whose distinctive sounds were heard around many of the housing estates.

In a unique move for Edwardian evening, Mayor Christine Marsh invited mayors and chairmen of councils from the surrounding towns and parishes and held a reception for them in the town hall.

She said the whole idea had been to promote what Okehampton had to offer and all the food was donated from local producers who attend the farmers' market.

'The food was beautiful and everybody who came seemed to have a great time,' she said. 'Had it not rained, it would have been better still but there was nothing we could do about that.

'I was really proud of the people of the town for braving the weather and coming out. The Arcade was packed with people for the carol service and it was lovely to see.

'It was a very positive occasion for Okehampton and I think people were surprised by how much the town had to offer.'

Derek Godfrey-Brown from the Chamber of Trade said the community spirit, which had been commented on by the visiting dignitaries, together with the singing, music, Edwardian costume and festive atmosphere, all combined to give a feeling of 'conviviality.'

'The shops were all busy and the majority of traders entered into the spirit by dressing in Edwardian style,' he said. 'I would like to thank everyone for their enormous support in making the event such a success. It was very encouraging.

'We often get it said to us that we do not enter into the spirit to the same degree as Tavistock does for its Dickensian evening but I think this year we have made some bold gesture in that direction and I would like to think we will continue on that road.'

Butcher Philip Martin said the store had a healthy stream of customers and quite a lot of stock had been sold over the counter plus orders had been taken for Christmas.

'It was definitely worth opening,' he said. 'There was a lot of people around considering the weather.

'We had a barbecue going outside the shop which was a success and the money we raised was donated towards the Christmas lights.'

The winner of the best shop presentation was Heather's Florist, Tarka Antiques and A & D Dress Agency were winner and runner-up in the 'best dressed' prize.