Bright future for Christmas lights

Sandy Town Council reaffirmed its commitment to putting up the lights at a meeting on Tuesday (July 31).

Sandy mayor Councillor Susan Sutton said: “The lights are an important part of Sandy’s calendar in the winter months and we want them to be there this year.

“We are keen to work with other groups or individuals to ensure we see the same high standard we have had in previous years.”

The Christmas lights working group chaired by Councillor Nigel Aldis is working on ideas for the event.

Quotations are also being sought from lighting contractors to supply and put up the lights, which are hoped to be of the LED variety.

The council has moved to dispel doubts after the Sandy Chamber of Trade announced that it would no longer be involved with the organisation of the lights and the annual switch-on.

The organisation, which had been responsible for the lights for years pulled out after town councillors said that the event had grown stale.

Councillors also said that the chamber did not provide enough detailed financial information to justify the proposed £5,500 grant from the council.

It later transpired that accounts had been submitted in January. Town councillors hope to restore relations with the chamber, but members of the organisation and the Sandy Town Team have declined invitations to discuss the lights with councillors.

Anyone who has any suggestions for the event can contact 01767 681491.