ILLUMINATED lanterns carried by 200 schoolchildren ensured that Saundersfoot got all lit up for Christmas at the weekend.

As Friday’s curtain-raiser to the village’s popular St Nicholas Market, youngsters and parents from Saundersfoot CP School paraded down The Strand, pausing as the Christmas tree lights were switched, before making their way to the new harbour decking.

There was a magical moment as Santa ‘lit’ the decking’s seven-metre tall festive lighting feature before the children sang carols.

“It was wonderful to see the school getting so involved, and they really got the market off to a great start,” said Phil Odley, chairman of Saundersfoot Chamber for Tourism which organises the event

The market’s harbour side marquee provided a welcome refuge from the weekend’s winds and showers, and with a record number of over 60 stalls, chef demonstrations and live music, there was plenty to occupy its many visitors.

Santa’s Grotto also did brisk business, welcoming more than 200 excited children.

“We had a footfall of 9,000 over the weekend, and our numbers were slightly up on last year which is amazing considering the weather,” said Mr Odley.