North Walsham's community spirit came to the fore once more as revellers refused to be put off by rain and biting winds to enjoy the Christmas lights switch-on.

The weather was in a foul mood throughout Saturday, testing stallholders and visitors to the limit.

But lights committee chairman Dave Turner said he was 'amazed' at the turnout, with people determined to enjoy the annual event.

The switch was flicked by magician Roy Davenport to bathe the town in colourful light - with the help of four local competition winners.

Before that, the town centre streets were lined with a host of charity and trade stalls, while entertainment was provided by Manor Road Junior School Choir and North Walsham Community Girls' Choir.

There were also fairground rides in the town centre.

Mr Turner said: 'Apart from the weather it went very well. Regardless of the weather, you can always rely on the people of North Walsham to come out and they did in their droves.

'People turned out to listen to the choirs as well. I was very pleased with how it went. I was amazed at the number of people.'

Mr Turner said there was a core of eight volunteers who spent five Sundays putting up the lights in the lead-up to the event, plus being out on Saturday from 8am to 9.45pm.

He added: 'We could really do with some more people. We were thoroughly cold and wet by the end of the day, but it was worth it. The community spirit shone through.'