EXMOUTH town centre was transformed into a sea of festive fun last week when crowds of people flocked to the Christmas Cracker event.

The lack of an ice rink, meant to play a key part in the three day spectacle, failed to dampen spirits as thousands turned out to celebrate the start of Exmouth’s own countdown to Christmas.

Suzanne Birkett, from Exmouth council’s town management department, was thrilled with the success of the festivities.

“The overwhelming conclusion looking back, based on what people have told us since, is of praise and support,” she said.

“I thought the whole event was excellent. There were between five and 6000 people in the Strand gardens throughout Friday – testament to its success.

“It is probably the best Christmas Cracker we have ever held.”

Suzanne said it was nice that people had the opportunity to enjoy the new Strand Gardens.

She added: “It was great for us to be able to show it off and demonstrate to people how we can utilise that space.

“We (at the town council) have received so man warm emails about how good the Christmas Cracker was.”

There were an array of stalls for people to peruse around throughout the event, a small fun fair, and entertainment on the Strand stage was provided by Heart FM, Exmouth Community College pupils and a number of bands.

The sky lit up at the end of Friday night with an impressive firework display and when the Christmas tree lights were switched on.

Fun continued throughout the weekend with the second Exmouth Santa Dash which took place in Exeter Road.

Jerry Miller, owner of Exmouth Market, said crowds of people visited the indoor shopping centre during the Christmas Cracker.

“On the Friday night, inside the market was probably the busy I have ever seen.

“The whole weekend went so well – and it is testament to the hard work of Tony Collins (the town centre manager) and his team.

“It has built a great foundation for us to build on next year.”