paul watts and visit cornwall

Published by Sarah Yeoman at 6:12am 14th May 2020. (Updated at 7:51am 14th May 2020)

Photo: Paul Watts/Visit Cornwall

The Mousehole Christmas lights have been cancelled because of coronavirus.

Cornwall's famous festive lights display will not go ahead this year, as organisers fear there could be a second wave in the Covid-19 pandemic.

They say their priority is to protect both residents and and visitors.

One of the primary considerations taken into account was the safety of the volunteers, many of whom are aged over 70.

Organisers say they could not risk bringing 3,000 visitors into the village for the switch on night, and 30,000 across the three-week Christmas period.

They added they regret that local businesses may not receive the benefit of their usual increased trade during the Christmas period, but believe the decision will be welcomed by the wider community.

"It was with heavy hearts that we made the decision not to deploy our main displays this year, for only the second time in our 57 year history, but the safety of the residents of Mousehole overrode all other considerations.

"We will be back in 2021."

Peter Taylor, Chairman of Mousehole Harbour Lights

Making the announcement on Facebook, the committee posted;

"I regret to have to inform you that the Mousehole Harbour Lights Committee have overwhelmingly supported a decision to cancel the Lights displays for this year.

"The primary reason for this decision is to protect Mousehole residents from the influx of visitors whilst the Covid pandemic may potentially re-surge.

"Thank you and keep safe everyone."

Mousehole Harbour Lights Committee

via https://www.piratefm.co.uk/news/latest-news/3102539/coronavirus-mousehol...