Storm Bert forces cancellation of Devon Christmas lights switch-on

Mary Stenson
·2-min read
-Credit: (Image: Kilmarnock Standard)
-Credit: (Image: Kilmarnock Standard)


A Christmas lights switch-on in Devon has been cancelled after the Met Office issued two weather warnings. Storm Bert is expected bring heavy rain and strong winds to the South West over the weekend.

Crowds were expected to gather in Newton Abbot tomorrow (November 23) to watch the town's Christmas light switch-on event, which was also set to include street food stalls, children's activities and live music.

Organisers have now said it is not safe for the event to go-ahead tomorrow after two yellow weather warnings for wind and rain were issued for Devon. The Met Office has said this could cause travel disruption, power cuts, flooding and damage to buildings.

READ MORE: Met Office issues 'danger to life' warning as Storm Bert hits Devon

READ MORE: Brits all saying same thing about Storm Bert as Met Office issues snow warnings

Newton Abbot Town Council say that they would not be covered by insurance if they put up gazebos during the storm. They have said they are "gutted" to cancel but have vowed to go ahead with other festive events in the town in the next few weeks.

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"We simply cannot put anyone at risk and our insurers would refuse to cover us if we allowed gazebos to be erected in the high wind speeds expected to come with Storm Bert," said Events Co-ordinator Natalie Hicks.

"We're gutted for everyone involved and the countless families who were looking to attend but it’s the right call. On Wednesday December 4 we continue with our traditional Victorian Evening, then we will have the lantern workshop and 12pm dog-friendly carol service on Saturday December 7.

"The Lantern Parade at 6:30pm on Wednesday December 11 will no doubt prove to be a huge draw once again, then on December 18 I'll be hosting the Mayor’s Carol Service from 6:30pm at St Leonard’s Tower.

"Don't forget there will be late night shopping each Wednesday on December 4, 11 and 18 when Santa will be in town and his grotto open for selfies.

"There will also be street markets with food, drink and crafts each Sunday on December 1, 8 and 15 between 10am and 3pm. Look out for the posters, follow the Town Council on social media and visit our website for all the details.

"Storm Bert may have scuppered some of our plans but Christmas 2024 in Newton Abbot is more than one day."

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