Mayor apologises for early lights countdown

Hundreds turned out to see Shifnal's lights switch-on on Saturday

A mayor has apologised after his town's Christmas lights were switched on early, meaning some visitors missed the countdown to the big moment.

Paul Williamson, of Shifnal Town Council in Shropshire, said the illuminations went on "around five minutes earlier than scheduled" on Saturday due to a "minor timing glitch".

The mayor also defended a decision not to bring in trade stands for the event, saying it was a conscious choice to maximise spend on the lights and not spread resources too thinly.

Social media users had criticised both aspects of the event.

In a Facebook post on Monday, the town councillor thanked those who turned out for the switch-on, despite the "unfortunate and rather dismal" weather on the night.

He added that the weather "certainly didn't appear to dampen spirits", and added: "It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying our Father Christmas and Disney characters."

Williamson said the town council aimed to continue its investment in the town's festive lights, and wanted to have one of the best displays in Shropshire.

Feedback from pubs and cafes in the town suggested this year's event had been a success, he added.

He encouraged those with views on how to develop the switch-on event in future years to complete an online survey so the council could "create an event that reflects the wishes of our residents, building a festive atmosphere that brings people into the town balanced by the appropriate level of financial investment".