Boston hoping to up its game with new Christmas lights

Boston's efforts were criticised last year

A town mocked for its less-than-dazzling Christmas lights last year has promised "brand new lighting" for 2023.

Boston Borough Council said the town's illuminations would be switched on at 18:30 GMT on Thursday.

Organisers said it would "kick off the festive fun", with a four-day Christmas celebration planned.

Last year, the council faced criticism over its lack of festive lights and a £20,000 artificial tree.

This year, entertainment will be provided across the town centre, including live music from local band Revolver, the council said.

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Organisers said crowds would also be treated to the Transported Illuminate Parade, described on the council's website as an "impressive spectacle" involving performers and musicians parading through the marketplace.

Pescod Square Shopping Centre will switch its lights on at 19:00, the council added.

Last year, the Conservative-led administration chose to scale back its Christmas lights display due to rising costs and the impact it had on footfall.

However, after gaining power in May's local elections, independent councillors promised to improve the festive offer.

In July, the council's deputy leader Dale Broughton, who is portfolio holder for the town centre, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service it will "most certainly see improvement compared to previous years."

Further details about Christmas-themed events taking place in Boston can be found here.