The streets of Wisbech were alive with festive fun when the Christmas lights were switched on amid high winds and freezing cold rain.
For the first time in memory the weather tried its best to put a dampener on the annual event but people still turned out in force to enjoy the big countdown.
The first two acts performed on the market place stage but after rain and wind made it dangerous the rest of the performers had to be cancelled, said town clerk Susannah Farmer.
“Everything was going really well, a great crowd turned out, but sadly the weather curtailed the main stage performances.
“It got to a point where it just wasn’t safe to continue, there was water on the stage, with electrics, it just wasn’t safe.
“A gazebo was almost blown away, it is the worst weather I remember seeing. We have had cold, but to have cold with high wind and rain is a completely different story.”
Irish comic Jimmy Cricket joined town mayor councillor David Hodgson for the lights switch on.
Ms Farmer said: “Jimmy did a great job switching on the lights after performing to a sell out crowd for a pre switch on successful show. There’s talk there may be a similar pre-lights show next year which would be a great addition to the entertainment on offer.”
The switch on saw fair rides, stalls and a host of refreshments as well as a special service at at Peter’s and St Paul’s church to give local families a chance to remember their loved ones.
A big thank you was sent to everybody who helped make the event possible, Ms Farmer said.
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