Harrogate BID promises dazzling display at this year's Christmas lights

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It has appointed lighting experts, Gala Lights, who will be installing displays all over the town centre, including streets which have not been included before.

The lights, which will be switched on in mid-November, will be strung between buildings, wrapped around lampposts and housed in a number of trees, including ones in front of the Cenotaph.

There will also be an illuminated, programmable and multi-coloured tunnel on the Piazza in front of Victoria Shopping Centre, which is controllable via an app.

Harrogate BID Acting Chair Sara Ferguson said: “For a number of years, Harrogate’s annual Christmas lights have been funded by donations from local businesses and individuals, match-funded by Harrogate Borough Council.

“The appeal was launched on Stray FM and raised tens-of-thousands-of-pounds each and every year, with the switch on taking place live on radio with stars from Harrogate Pantomime playing leading roles.

“Whilst none of that will be happening this year for obvious reasons, Harrogate’s Christmas lights will shine brighter than ever and be a reason for people to come into town during the festive season to shop, eat and drink.

“Following a competitive pitch, we have chosen Gala Lights, as our partner of the next four years. They are Christmas lighting specialists and work with towns, cities and BIDs throughout the UK. And for the first time in many years the lights are being custom-made for us.

“We are also looking at a lights switch on, but this won’t be a physical countdown in the town centre, but an online one involving local businesses and, hopefully, a big name or two.”

Christopher Stille, Gala Lights Managing Director, added: “We are proud to be creating bespoke new Christmas lights for Harrogate town centre and we hope the new scheme will be well received by residents and visitors alike.”

Harrogate’s Christmas Lights will be switched on for the first time on Saturday, November 14.

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Further information about Harrogate BID, and this specific match-funding grant, is available at www.harrogatebid.co.uk