Wyre festive lights funding to go ahead, council confirms

Council grants given to Wyre towns for festive lighting will remain unaffected by the pandemic, but lights switch-on events will not be permitted.

Past events were organised by volunteer groups in each town, including Cleveleys, Poulton, Fleetwood, Thonton, Knott End and Preesall, Hambleton and Garstang.

The costs of trees and lights in recent years were funded in part by council grants, with the remainder of costs being met by the community and volunteers.

But this year, Government guidance during lockdown would not permit outdoor events, which could see organisers opting to stream them online.

A spokesman for Wyre Council said: "We are continuing to support festive lighting by providing grants as per usual.

"Christmas light switch-ons however are cancelled in line with government guidance, some may be able to be viewed online, depending on what the organising groups decide.

"We’re doing everything we can to work with the community groups who put the lights on. It really is important this year that the high streets are supported as much as possible to raise the spirits of the community whilst keeping everyone safe."