Sandy Town Council turn Christmas lights on and launch competition

Christmas has come early to Sandy this year with the switch-on of the town's lighting scheme

Festive cheer has arrived early in Sandy after the Christmas lights were officially switched on without fuss last Thursday by the mayor and mayoress.

Sandy Town Council confirmed it didn’t publicise the switch-on, fearing this could encourage crowds to flock to the town centre - increasing the risk of coronavirus spreading.

A spokesperson said: “The council decided to switch on the town centre Christmas lighting scheme at an earlier date than normal this year to help spread some cheer through the town at what we know is a difficult time for so many.

“Knowing that this Christmas period will feel different, and maybe less magical for people across the community, we hope that everyone will be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere for longer, when out in the town centre over the coming weeks.”

The display of red and white star motifs, icicles on shop fronts, white starbursts and twinkling tree lights, is completed by a beautiful 25ft Nordmann Christmas tree covered in multi-coloured lights and topped with a shining star.

The council is liaising with the Friends of Sandy Christmas Lights, who would still like to offer a safe, Christmas-themed event for the benefit of the town’s residents. Therefore, government guidelines and Covid-19 safety regulations permitting, the Friends of Sandy Christmas Lights have planned a small Christmas market and funfair for Sunday, December 6.

Now that the town’s lights are shining, Sandy Town Council, in partnership with St Swithun’s Parish Church, is also inviting residents and businesses in Sandy and Beeston to light up their neighbourhoods and share their seasonal activity with the community through a Christmas Decoration Competition.

Participants are asked to submit a photo of the Christmas lights and decorations on the front of their house, garden, shop, pub or restaurant.

Categories include a front garden Christmas tree, a window display, a nativity scene and an overall display.

Entries should be sent to [email protected] by Friday, December 18. Photos will be shared on the council’s Facebook page.

A winner for each category will be chosen by a panel of judges from the council and the church, and will be announced on Monday, December 21. Each winner will receive a £50 prize voucher for the Sandy High Street business of their choice.