New five-year plan for Barnard Castle’s Christmas lights

Barnard Castle’s Christmas lights group has put together a five-year plan to replace lights on the existing display, and to extend it to other places not illuminated.

Jonathan Wallis, of the Christmas Lights committee, told members of Barnard Castle Town Council’s partnership committee there are also plans to make improvements to lights on the main high street.

He added that the committee, along with the town council, had decided to change contractor to set up the display.

Mr Wallis said: “After several years of using Christmas Plus, it was now felt a contractor was needed who can service, test and certificate all the power sources and electrical infrastructure associated with the lights, alongside comprehensively servicing the display and working with our five-year ambitious plan to replace the current lights and grow the display.”

He thanked Christmas Plus for their support over the years, without whom “Barnard Castle would not have had the wonderful displays it has”.

Members heard the switch on event would take place on Friday, November 27.

Mr Wallis said: “Following the success of last year’s event, there will be a procession through the town centre, entertainment and the official switch-on from a stage outside the Methodist Church and street entertainment in the town.

“We are looking for groups and individuals to take part in the procession and anyone wishing to get involved in the event is encouraged to get in touch with the committee or the council.”