The switch on of Christmas lights in Swindon has been postponed as the town braces for a heavy storm.
The highly-anticipated town centre Christmas light switch-on event was due to take place on Saturday, November 23 between 4.30pm and 6.30pm.
Crowds were set to gather at the Cenotaph to see Swindon's very own Dame, David Ashley, press the button to illuminate the town in festive lights and get celebrations underway.
The event was also set to include a lantern parade passing through the streets, and performances by Swindon Dance, the Salvation Army and Rhythmix Goa.
But now crowds might have to wait a little longer, as Swindon Borough Council has postponed the event due to an incoming storm.
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A yellow weather warning has been issued as Storm Bert is set to hit Swindon on Saturday, November 23 and Sunday, November 24, bringing heavy rain and windspeeds of up to 50mph.
The avoid disaster, the town centre Christmas lights switch-on event has now been moved one week later to Saturday, November 30 from 3.30pm to 5.30pm at the same location.
Performances are still believed to be going ahead as usual but at the new later date.
The Old Town Christmas lights switch-on event has also now been moved from Sunday, November 24 to Sunday, December 1, and more details about this are set to follow.
Speaking about the plans for Swindon this year, Councillor Marina Strinkovsky said: “We’ve pulled out all the stops to make this year’s Christmas season the busiest and best Swindon has seen for years.
“I’m excited for the town to become a hive of festive activity and I can’t wait to see people enjoy the new town centre Christmas market and all the lights and colours at this dark time of the year.
“We know not everyone celebrates Christmas, but our hope is that the variety of events will bring people together and bring joy to everyone’s family, friends and local community.”
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