WEST Linton was filled with the festive spirit last week for its Christmas Light Switch On and market.

Despite the cold November evening on Thursday, locals and visitors had the chance to warm up thanks to mulled wine from the Village Centre and plenty of hot food served by local businesses and those taking part at the Graham Institute.

The Pyet served up its hot pizzas, stovies and macaroni and cheese; and Kiran’s Kitchen offered delicious Pakistani meals to hungry customers.

Kiran and Shaz from Kiran’s Kitchen said: “Just want to say a huge thank you to everyone again that helped make our night a huge success.

“A huge thanks to Ian and Gordon and everyone else that helped us.

“The lights look amazing and what fantastic turnout again. Well done to all the volunteers who do so much behind the scenes.

“We hope everyone enjoyed their dishes.

“Was great to meet new customers and regulars.

“Hopefully we can do something similar soon.”

On Thursday the first Christmas lights to be switched on were those at the Whipman Play Society tree at the Gordon Arms which were switched on by Whipman and Lass Fraser and Vikki Kay.

A West Linton Village Centre spokesperson added: “A thank you to everyone who popped into the VC for a mulled wine, mince pie, a chat, whatever.

“A quick shout out to Calum Greenhow and the lights team who put in a power of work to brighten up our dark December/early January nights. We’re hugely grateful to them.

“The lights don’t pay for themselves, they need maintained, safety certificates and electricity ain’t getting any cheaper!”