Sadness as Mansfield Christmas lights switch-on cancelled due to Covid-19 risks

Mansfield District Council has said that the town centre will still be decorated with Christmas lights over the festive period and there will be a beautifully lit Christmas tree in the Market Place.

However, instead of an official switch-on ceremony, the council will deliver a weekend of virtual celebrations via its Facebook page at the end of November.

Despite the cancellation, the council has planned to launch a Christmas in Mansfield campaign that shines the festive fairy-lights in efforts to support vulnerable people affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Executive Mayor Andy Abrahams said: “The most important thing is to keep local people safe.

“We know many people will be disappointed that there will be no big town centre switch-on event this year, but Christmas is far from cancelled in Mansfield.

“There will still be plenty of festive spirit to cheer people up and boost morale in these difficult times, and we still intend to support our local businesses to ensure people shop close to home to support the Mansfield economy.

“We especially want to focus on the amazing work going on in our community to support those who are having a tough time during this pandemic, whether mentally, physically or financially. This will truly be a time to reach out to those in need.”

Residents and businesses will be able to buy a bauble for the town centre Christmas tree to raise money for festive food and treats for those facing Covid-related financial pressures and who may not get to enjoy Christmas luxuries this year.

Sponsoring a bauble will enable businesses or organisations to share festive messages, or allow families to pay tribute to a loved one or thank a volunteer, friend or neighbour for their support during the pandemic.

Messages will be displayed on the town centre Christmas tree for all the community to see and take pride in.

The virtual event will feature tutorials on making homemade gifts and Christmas crafts as well as singalong sessions, competitions and freebie giveaways.

The news of the cancellation comes as other councils across Nottinghamshire scrapped their plans to host annual switch-on events.