THERE will be no public switch-on ceremony for the Christmas lights this year due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Instead, Fordingbridge Town Council says it will be having a small, private ceremony next month, attended by one or two council representatives.

The lights will be switched on earlier than they normally would be.

Councillors raised concerns about holding a public gathering due to Covid-19 during a meeting last week.

Councillor Mike Jackson felt the lights should be turned on “as soon as possible”, adding: “The enjoyment of the lights is being able to come into Fordingbridge and see them on. The longer period they are on the better.”

The mayor of Fordingbridge, Councillor Edward Hale said: “It is a good idea to turn them on earlier.”

He said the council needed to encourage people not to attend