No switch-on event for Swad’s Christmas lights this year

THE Christmas lights have already gone up nine weeks early but there will be no official switch-on event in Swadlincote this year, it has been announced.

South Derbyshire’s usual Christmas lights events will not take place this year to protect the safety of residents and visitors during the coronavirus pandemic, it has been confirmed.

With restrictions on social gatherings in place, it is not possible to hold the usual Christmas lights switch-on and fireworks event in Swadlincote, council bosses said.

The event usually attracts thousands of people into the town to watch the fireworks display and welcome the start of the festive season.

Despite the cancellation, South Derbyshire District Council says it will mark the festive season to support the local economy, putting up Christmas trees and lights to spread seasonal cheer.

Swadlincote and Melbourne markets will also be continuing to offer local produce and gift ideas in the run-up to Christmas.

Councillor Martyn Ford, the council’s leader, said: “We have been holding off making the difficult decision to cancel the annual Christmas events until the last possible moment hoping that matters might improve.

“But with the number of Covid-19 cases rising, it leaves us no choice but to cancel due to the restrictions on social gatherings as the safety of our residents and visitors is of paramount importance.

“Although we cannot hold these events, Christmas is definitely not cancelled: our markets and local traders will be open in the lead-up to Christmas and we will announce further details in the coming weeks.”

The council is also working on developing interactive online content during December.

Further information will be made available shortly.

Burton has already announced that its Christmas lights switch-on event has been cancelled.