THE second Okehampton Lanterns Procession has been declared 'a smashing success' as more than 100 people turned out to watch the event.

Organised by Wren Music, a procession group led by a drumming band and Okehampton Excelsior Silver Band left St James' Chapel on Saturday evening, walking through the streets to Simmons Park, crossing the bridge by Chalet Treloar over the river towards a grand finale at the park bandstand.

Paul Tucker, resources and event's co-ordinator for Wren Music, said: 'The procession went really, really well, it was a smashing success. Over 100 people turned out to watch the procession on the streets, and just about everyone who made a lantern at one of our half-term workshops made it down to take part.

'The workshops throughout the week were really successful thanks to Okehampton Rugby Club, which was a really great venue for them. The weather for the procession was beautiful, a bit cold but dry and no wind, so it was perfect really.'

One of the most striking lanterns was a 14 feet high kingfisher, which flapped its wings as it was led through the procession.

'The kingfisher, like all the lanterns actually, looked absolutely great,' said Paul Tucker. 'The kinetic effect of it flapping its wings was very effective.

'We are hoping to do the procession again next year, and we are also hoping we can hold our workshops at the rugby club again next year as it turned out to be a brilliant venue and they were very supportive.'