ONE of Worcester’s best-loved Christmas events has fallen victim to the coronavirus crisis, but all is not lost for fans of the festive season.

Crowds will not be invited to the annual Christmas lights switch-on gathering in the city, although the Christmas lights will still be switched on.

Worcester BID is working with Worcester City Council for the switch on, with lights being put in place for November 26.

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However the format on the day will be different from previous years, and both groups are developing alternative plans to mark the occasion in style - but also safely.

More details will be published closer to the event, which hopes to spread some festive cheer in what looks likely to be an uncertain Christmas period.

The cancellation of the Worcester lights switch-on comes after other events in the county such as the one in Malvern were cancelled.

Due to the ongoing restrictions surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, both the Malvern Christmas Festival and light switch on will be cancelled.

The Christmas Market will still go ahead from 10am to 6.30pm on Saturday, November 28 offering handcrafted, locally sourced produce, unique arts and crafts and scrumptious food and drink.

Cllr Sarah Rouse, leader of Malvern Hills District Council, said: “It is a real shame that we cannot enjoy the usual festive celebrations that Great Malvern is known for, however, there is still plenty for visitors to see and do.

“We have made the decision to cancel because the safety of our residents and visitors is of the utmost importance.

“The activities held in its place will follow strict Covid-19 guidelines.”

Cllr Neil Morton, Mayor of Malvern, said: “The Covid-19 restrictions will mean this will be a very different Christmas from the ones we are used to.

READ MORE: Malvern Christmas festival cancelled due to coronavirus crisis

“A trip around the Christmas market is always enjoyable and is a good place to get unusual and interesting Christmas presents. There will also be the usual array of local produce to sample and buy.

“The streets of Malvern will still sparkle with Christmas lights provided by Malvern Town Council and there will also be a Christmas tree on Belle Vue Island as usual, which has been provided by Leigh Sinton Christmas Trees.”