Weymouth Christmas lights switch on cancelled

Weymouth won't be holding a big Christmas lights switch-on event this year.

It's because of the coronavirus pandemic, and worries large crowds gathering in public could increase the spread of the disease.

The event draws crowds of visitors each year, and is a boost for local businesses who stay open for the event.

Claudia Webb from Weymouth BID said:

"It is sad, and of course there's also the worry that not enough people will be going into town and spending money, and that's our job really to encourage both visitors and locals to feel safe enough to go into town.

"We're all being discouraged from having big events which means that a Christmas lights switch-on probably isn't the best way to go.

"We're trying to find other ways to make the town festive, which includes plans for lights, Christmas trees... Basically visible improvements rather than actual events."

One proposal is to project different images and lights onto the sides of buildings like Brewers Quay during the winter.

There will also be added incentives to shop in the town during January when there's typically a lull in spending, including a 'Dine for Less' promotion.

Claudia added:

"It would be really bad if we don't have a good Christmas season especially as we've been having such a wonderful summer season.

"I think it's really important that everyone is aware how important it is to shop locally and support local, because if we don't use it, we will lose it."