TO the mixed emotions of many in and around Taunton, the yearly Christmas lights switch-on event went ahead despite Storm Bert's disruption.
WinterFest 2024 was set to come to Taunton with the event to be a part of the town's Christmas lights switch-on.
The Christmas lights switch-on is known to be an integral start to the festive season for many in the town.
Taunton is now illuminated with different areas of the town lit up from head to toe - including a present in the Orchard Shopping Centre and two reindeer to accompany the town's Christmas tree at The Market House.
Set to go ahead last weekend (Sunday, November 24), Taunton's Town Council revealed that Ben de Vey’s Fun Fairs (the organisers of WinterFest 2024) took the "difficult decision" to cancel the event.
READ MORE: Taunton WinterFest 2024 cancelled amid Storm Bert weather
READ MORE: Council shares details of Taunton Christmas events
When asked why the switch-on went ahead despite Storm Bert cancelling WinterFest, a spokesperson from the Taunton Town Council said: "The organisers of Winterfest, Ben de Vey’s Fun Fairs, took the difficult decision to cancel Taunton’s Winterfest due to the extreme weather experienced over the weekend with Storm Bert.
"Unfortunately, it was not possible to reschedule due to licensing and contractor availability.
"Taunton’s Christmas lights were due to be switched on during the event.
"The Christmas lights are an integral part of the Christmas atmosphere in Taunton and the decision was taken for the Mayor to proceed with the scheduled switch-on to allow businesses, residents and visitors to enjoy them as planned."
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