DESPITE the poor weather the crowds turned out to watch Jane Tomlinson switch on Settle's Christmas lights on Saturday.

Jane, whose husband Mike is from Settle, has captured the admiration and hearts of the nation with her bravery in fundraising and completing a number of high profile sporting challenges while suffering from terminal cancer.

She has run the London marathon twice, the Great North Run twice, completed the London Triathlon twice, finished the UK Half Ironman triathlon and completed a John O'Groats to Land's End tandem cycle ride.

Jane braved the rain to turn on Settle's Christmas lights and received a warm reception from local people who gathered for the occasion.

Lynne Ridgway, of Settle Chamber of Trade, welcomed Jane and paid tribute to her achievements.

She has raised in excess of £400,000 for various charities including Cancer Research UK. Settle traders boosted her total with a cheque for £800 which they presented to her on Saturday.

Jane told the Herald: "I was delighted to be able to turn the lights on in Settle. I have strong connections with the town and it was a thrill to be given the honour."

Despite the wet weather, there was plenty to keep visitors to the Market Place amused, including Father Christmas in his grotto, entertainment from local school pupils, music from Giggleswick and Settle Brass Band, a Punch and Judy show, charity stalls and a farmers' market.

The winner of the Chamber of Trade window display competition was Castleberg Sports with the Tourist Information Centre and Flower Basket as runners up.

* Hellifield people gathered on Friday evening to light up their village.

The event featured a procession with children in nativity costume, a nativity scene and carol singing.

Local electrician Brian Hugill switched on the lights, which have been provided thanks to the efforts of local people.

The funding has come from the proceeds of the annual village gala in August, a house to house collection, sponsorship from local businesses and various donations, including one from the parish council.

Organiser Angela Dakin told the Herald: "It was a really successful night.

"It went really well and lots of people came back to Hellifield Club for mince pies and mulled wine."