VOLUNTEERS are needed to help with this year’s Christmas in Dawlish weekend.

The festive season kicks off in the town on Saturday November 21 and Sunday November 22 with a host of events organised by Dawlish Town Council and Dawlish Chamber of Trade.

A spokesman said: ‘We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make this year’s weekend our most magical ever.’

With more than 50 festive stalls on both days, Father Christmas returning to his Gingerbread Cottage, and the Lantern Parade lighting up the town on Saturday evening, a team of volunteers is needed to help it run smoothly.

Volunteer roles include: general helpers; supporting visitors and traders; set up and take down teams for gazebos, equipment and signage; helpers for Father Christmas; selfie board ambassadors and street collectors and marshals for the lantern parade.

The spokesman added: ‘Whether you can spare a couple of hours or help throughout the weekend, we'd love to hear from you.

‘Quite simply, without volunteers, events like this wouldn’t be possible. Your support helps create magical memories for thousands of residents and visitors.

‘So gather your festive spirit, wrap up warm, and come and join us for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend.’

Anyone interested is asked to email [email protected] or speak to traders who can take details.

There will also be live music and entertainment on through the weekend.

The official Christmas lights switch on starts at 4.30pm on Saturday with the lantern parade which will be bigger and better than ever.

The weekend will be officially started by the Mayor Cllr Anne Heywood at noon followed by music from the Dawlish Daytime Brass Band.

Between 1pm and 3pm, Father Christmas will be in the Gingerbread Cottage at Dawlish Bowling Club.

Following the 5pm lights switch on, Bay Brass will be leading the carol singing.

On Sunday, the festive market returns to the Strand and Father Christmas will be meeting children between noon and 2pm back at the Gingerbread Cottage.