'Regret' as town council cancels Christmas lights switch on ahead of 'likely impact' of Storm Bert

A Nottinghamshire town council has cancelled its annual Christmas lights switch on event due to the "likely" impact Storm Bert could have in the area. Newark Town Council confirmed its decision to cancel the long-awaited event, which was supposed to take place in Newark on Sunday, November 24.

The authority cited safety concerns prompted by the "likely" impact of Storm Bert. A statement from the council reads: "It is with regret that we must announce that due to the likely impact of Storm Bert and associated weather warnings, the Christmas Lights Switch On event this Sunday will not be going ahead.

"The strong wind gusts forecast are a cause of safety concerns for the stage production team both during the event and the planned stage construction period which was due to get underway on Saturday. Traders that were due to be using gazebos are also compromised. Some of the fairground rides planned are also unable to operate with the wind speeds that are forecast.

"We are very mindful of the safety and comfort of all traders, staff, visitors and performers alike and for an event with typically a very large attendance, safety has to be paramount." The authority explained that the Christmas lights will still be switched on at a suitable time, but without the usual countdown and entertaiment.

It also said that activity will still go ahead at the indoor Artisan Market in the Buttermarket. The statement adds: "We are deeply saddened by this decision which has been taken based on discussions with, and advice from, various agencies. A lot of work goes into events like this and the decision has not been taken lightly."

The cancellation comes as the Met Office warned of the impacts of Storm Bert. Dan Holley, Met Office's deputy chief meteorologist, said: "Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend, but heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place."

According to the forecaster, wind gusts in Newark will reach speeds of up to 46mph on Sunday, while temperatures will stay at a mild 14C.