ST Neots will be getting Christmas lights this year despite last year s accident where the lights came crashing down in the High Street. The town council confirmed on Thursday morning (September 25) that there will be Christmas lights for 2008 with a swi

ST Neots will be getting Christmas lights this year despite last year's accident where the lights came crashing down in the High Street.

The town council confirmed on Thursday morning (September 25) that there will be Christmas lights for 2008 with a switch on ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 28.

Welcoming the news councillor Derek Giles said: "St Neots has a deserved reputation for both its lights and the switch on ceremony. I am delighted that they will be back for 2008 bigger and better than ever."

There had been some doubt about the arrangements following an accident in the High Street in 2007 when the fixings for one of the cross street displays failed causing the lights to collapse onto the road below.

However the council has now terminated the contract with its previous contractors and has purchased lights. Arrangements are now being made for their erection through a Huntingdonshire-based company.

Town clerk Phil Devonald and his staff are arranging for the display to be put up during November with a return to the traditional switch on parade and ceremony at the end of that month. There will be a fair and stalls in the market square together with a stage for local performers to entertain the crowd.

More details will appear in The Hunts Post over the coming weeks.

INFORMATION: Anyone interested in volunteering to help with this year's event as a marshal organiser or performer should contact the Council on 01480 388911.