THOUSANDS of people packed in to Lyme Regis to witness the lighting of the Candles on the Cobb.

The event saw 5,000 candles lit which have each been purchased to remember a loved one so every single one has a special meaning.

The lighting takes place every three years to raise money for charity, the two this year being Make a Wish UK and Lyme Regis Youth Projects.

Organisers were happy with how successful the event was despite concerns over the weather.

Video of the event and fireworks by James Loveridge.

Plastic beakers were used to stop the flames being buffeted out by the chilly breeze.

Adrian Wood, from the Candles on the Cobb team, said: “It went very well. There were about 10,000 people there.

“People weren’t sure what the weather was going to do but it was a very good event and we’re very pleased.

“We’ve probably exceeded our expectation in what we are going to raise but we haven’t got a final total yet."

Attending the event was former Wales and British Lions Rugby player Scott Quinnell who is an ambassador for Make a Wish.

Scott's family business is Quinnell Candles who made and sponsored every single one of the candles from their home in Wales and have already pledged their support for 2018.

As well as the lighting of the candles, crowds got to enjoy a firework display and plenty of stalls.

The organisers wanted to thank everyone who helps make the event possible including the Lyme Regis Power Boat Club, the B Sharp Voices who provided new music for the event, all the sponsors and volunteers and the public who came down and gave generously to the event.

All of the candles were lit in just 9 minutes before the crowd shared in a period of reflection to remember their loved ones.

One holidaymaker said: “I had never been to Candles on the Cobb before – it was an amazing sight.

“The Cobb looked beautiful all lit up – it’s such a lovely event and for a great cause.”