Stirling’s seasonal festivities got off to a tedious start at Saturday’s light switch-on, as many of the lights failed to turn on, including King Street’s giant Christmas tree.
Up until that point, the day’s events had proceeded without a hitch. For the first time, a Christmas farmers’ market took place on the same day as the switch-on.
However, a “major power issue” meant that a few lights, including those of the Christmas tree, couldn’t be turned on. The lights which turned on, did so five minutes earlier than planned.
“There was a countdown at around 4.55pm and all the lights turned on apart from the Christmas tree”, said Milla Graham, a student who attended the switch on.
Stirling Council admitted the incident in a statement and said that “work is underway to establish the cause of the fault”.
Some Facebook comments on Stirling Council’s post also criticised the organisation of the event, with a parked van blocking the view down King Street for some spectators. There was also mention of crowd control issues.
Failing any more mishaps, Stirling’s Christmas festivities will ramp up over the next few weeks. From December 6, Santa will be at the Wallace Monument each weekend.
Featured Image Credit: Frank Baker
