THE fanfare surrounding the switch-on of Taunton’s Christmas lights will not be happening this year, it has been announced.

Officials from Taunton Deane Borough Council have announced that instead of one big event, the town will see a series of smaller events throughout November and December.

There will still be lights and a Christmas tree in the town centre, but no event especially dedicated to turning on the lights throughout the town.

A smaller event will take place on Castle Green on December 1 to turn on the lights in the area, and will involve a live show put on by Apple FM and Tone FM.

Andrew Hopkins, business development – marketing and Taunton Visitor Centre manager, said the aim was to avoid focussing on one single event during the festive season.

“Switch-on events have changed, and it is never what people want it to be anymore,” he said.

“This year we have had to draw a line, after the demise of Destination Taunton, we are left picking up the pieces.

“We are hoping to spread the spirit of Christmas, instead of relying on one event that could be called off by bad weather, or you might miss if you’re not feeling well.”

A series of markets, the Santas On The Run event, ice skating and other Christmas events will take place on Castle Green, Hestercombe and elsewhere about the town.

Late-night shopping starts with a number of the big retailers in Taunton on Thursday, November 24, and will continue each Thursday until December 22, all until 9pm.

The Orchard Centre shops will not begin late night shopping events until December 1.

Pat Mayhew, of Time4, said: “It is a pity. If we lose this event, we may never get it back again.

“Going forward from here, we all need to work together.

“It seems there are lots of groups doing things on their own, and only now are we starting to come together.”

Mrs Mayhew hopes to bring a series of Christmas chalets to the High Street, and has drawn up a petition in which she claims most businesses on the street have signed to show support for the market-type huts. She is currently awaiting approval on her plans.

Colin Barrell, chairman of the Taunton Chamber of Commerce, said: “I’m not sure if the switch-on event does drive footfall to businesses in the town.

“Personally, I would prefer a switch-on event, but where does that funding come from?

“It all depends on what else is in place, if there are enough events to take its place then the switch-on event shouldn’t matter.

“I wonder if the event just gives people a reason to be disappointed anyway.”

We asked people around Taunton what they thought about this, here's what they had to say: 

Mike Fuller, 68, Holway, said: "At least we are going to have the lights still. 
"I think if the shops still get involved then that would be good.
"If you can still give people a Christmas feel, then it shouldn't matter too much."

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Enid Dennis, 83, Blackbrook, said: "I think having the big event adds to the atmosphere. 
"I am disappointed that we won't be having a switch on event. 
"It brings more people into the town and it makes people feel more Christmassy."

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Julie Bryant, 53, Chard, said: "I know Chard will still be having an event but my family are from Taunton and I am here a lot so it will be a shame. 
"The switch-on events have been going on for years, even since I was a little girl, and it will be a real shame to not have one. 
"I guess there a cutbacks everywhere now."

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