There will be no Christmas light switch-on celebration in South Ayrshire this year.

The decision was confrimed by the council due to "ongoing high prevalence of Covid-19 cases in the area".

This means that the council is not able to support any requests for road closures to facilitate organised Christmas lighting switch-on events that would encourage large gatherings of people in constrained places.

However, towns and villages will still be illuminated during the festive season.

The council say that their priority is to ensure residents are safe, and while they know that some communities may be disappointed that formal switch-on events can’t take place, they want to make sure that everyone can enjoy the festive season responsibly with family and friends.

Councillor Chris Cullen, South Ayrshire Council's portfolio holder for economy and culture, said: “I know that many local people look forward to seeing the annual festive light displays, and some may find it disappointing that formal switch-on events can’t go ahead this year. 

"However, coronavirus is still prevalent, and encouraging large groups of people to gather in one area would be irresponsible.

“I’m sure however, that our communities will still be able to enjoy and celebrate safely this festive season.”