Martin Clunes switches on Christmas lights in Bradpole

Once again, Doc Martin star Martin Clunes made his way to 2 White Close in Bradpole to switch on their Christmas lights.

More than a hundred people braved the poor weather to take part in the festive cheer and watch the lights go on.

The owners of the house, Monica and Rob Teague, put on a spectacular lit-up display every year, to raise money for charity.

After ten years, the pair's displays have become one of the highlights of the festive season in the area, but the couple has announced this year will be their last.

This year, money raised will go to Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, of which Mr Clunes is a patron.

Mr Clunes said: "It is lovely, it's amazing. It is a nice way to start Christmas. I have enjoyed myself tonight."

Monica Teague said: "This is our final year because we are getting too old for it. Last year was going to be our last, but we decided to go for one more.

Having initially planned to make 2023 the last event, they decided to return for one more year to help the hospice which Mr Teague said is ‘in desperate need of donations.’

Mr Teague (Image: Cristiano Magaglio) Mrs Teague (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)

Most of those attending lived within walking distance of the event. For them, the light switch on signalled the start of the festive season, and the chance to have a photo with Mr Clunes, and Santa.

Resident Lindsay Boon attended with her husband and son. She said: "It is very sweet. My son has loved it.

"It is a lovely little community event."

Stacey Way attends most years with her family. She said: " It normally starts our Christmas off, and the first lot of lights we see."

Another resident, Richard Buzza, has attended for the past few years with his family. He said: "I think it is a really nice thing."

Richard Buzza and his family (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)

Groves Nurseries also donated a large Christmas Tree with ‘thousands of lights’ and children could even press a button and light it up.