DUNSTER by Candlelight returns for its 27th year next Friday and Saturday, December 6-7, with lots of fun for all the family.

To mark the beginning of the festival on the Friday at 5.30pm there is the Lantern Lighting Procession, which starts on the Steep and continues through the village until all the lanterns in the streets have been lit.

It promises to be bigger and better than ever with entertainers, musicians and stilt walkers. This year’s theme is medieval and the high street in particular will reflect this.

Medieval archery and sword display group Bowlore will wow the crowds on both nights and there will be a Sutton Household Battle Re-enactment.

Visitors will be transported back in time thanks to all the music on offer and a host of free street entertainment throughout the village both evenings.

The Priory Church of St George will be open with a full programme of concerts, and six birds of prey will be on display in the high street.

From puppet shows and the Exmoor Zoo at the Tythe Barn, there will be plenty for families whatever the weather.

The West Somerset Railway is running a special service to make the event more magical. Steam trains will run from Bishops Lydeard to Dunster Station, from where you can make the 20-minute walk, or through to Minehead, where you can complete your journey by shuttle bus.

Roads into the village will be closed with access for private cars forbidden.

Two steam trains will run on the Friday and three on the Saturday, but it is necessary to pre-book as seats are limited on 01643-704996 or at www.westsomerset- railway.co.uk Dunster by Candlelight is again raising funds for St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice.

To find out more see www. dunsterbycandlelight.co.uk