Calderdale will light up for Christmas but without festive get-togethers

Recently some of the borough’s business representatives said Christmas decorations would be put up but because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic events which involved people gathering together would not take place.

And the council is planning its festive season along similar lines, with people keeping an eye on each other while observing COVID-19 guidance but not in the familiar large gatherings.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet member for Regeneration and Strategy, Coun Jane Scullion (Lab, Luddenden Foot) hoped people would create some magical memories despite the circumstances brought by the pandemic.

“We know that Christmas will be very different this year, but we encourage people to lift their spirits by finding fun new ways to celebrate, creating magical memories whilst protecting each other from COVID-19.

“As always, we will be bringing some festive cheer to our towns and villages by putting up Christmas lights and Christmas trees.

“Sadly, due to the pandemic, we won’t be holding any events, Christmas light switch-ons or gatherings around the trees this year.

“This is so we can all play our part to keep ourselves, our loved ones and our communities safe.

“The Christmas lights on streets across Calderdale will still be illuminated and the Christmas trees will be decorated in their usual colourful way.

“We can spread kindness and cheer this festive season by continuing to look out for neighbours, children and isolated older people, and by supporting our local businesses by shopping in independent shops and markets,” she said.

Things had to be safety first this year, said Coun Scullion.

“It’s really important that whatever we do to celebrate, it’s done safely.

“This means washing our hands regularly, wearing a face covering in enclosed public places, keeping our distance from people who aren’t in our household or support bubble, limiting social contact and getting tested if we have COVID-19 symptoms,” she said.

People can keep up to date with the latest guidance at www.calderdale.gov.uk/coronavirus – and the council’s tourism arm www.visitcalderdale.com would promote safe events it became aware of on the site’s What’s On page, said Coun Scullion.