There will be no big Christmas lights switch-on this year once again in Macclesfield.

COVID-19 cases surging as they were this time last year, are a big reason for the lack of light switch-on.

While Central Macclesfield, where the event is held, currently has the third lowest COVID-19 cases in our area with 28, our town's smallest form of government do not feel comfortable hosting an event of this capacity.

Macclesfield Town Council confirmed the news in a statement this morning:

"We know how much everyone looks forward to the Christmas Light Switch on in Macclesfield," they said.

"A cold November day, huddled together in the Market Place, musical acts on the stage and the countdown to the tree lighting up, lights down Mill Street and Chestergate coming on, and the fireworks going off.

"Unfortunately this year, whilst Macclesfield Town Council would love to throw a huge party, we are unable to hold such an event.

"At the time of writing COVID levels in Cheshire East remain on the rise, and it would not be appropriate or sensible to have over 3000 people stood shoulder to shoulder in the Market Place for switch on, and over 10,000 passing through the town centre over the course of the day.

"Cheshire East Council have constantly been updating and renewing their risk assessments for events in town, with Public Health England having an overview, and it is their decision that it would be unsafe to hold our usual Christmas event.

"We realise that people will be disappointed, as this is the second year in a row the switch on and fireworks haven't been able to take place, but we hope that people will understand the unfortunate position the Town Council is in.

"But fear not, we shall not be leaving Macclesfield without its share of festivities."

It was not all bad news, as on 20th November Macc's 'Step Into Christmas' event has been confirmed to go-ahead.

The start of a series of festive events in town in the run up to Christmas, for which we'll know more about by next month.

'Step Into Christmas' will feature the stage sponsored by Silk FM and Bristol Street Motors, Santa's grotto (contact the Visitor Information Centre to book your slot) Santa parade, street entertainers and mulled wine.

This event will launch us well into the Christmas season with a whole programme of things for you to enjoy. We know it doesn't replace the switch on, but by scaling things back and running a smaller event, we hope that we do not have to cancel any of the elements regardless of what happens, and we hope that you will still come into town and enjoy!

Full details of the Step Into Christmas event on the 20th November, and the rest of Macclesfield Town Council's Christmas programme will be released within a fortnight.

Macclesfield: Do you think no public lights switch-on is a good decision?

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