Christmas lights brighten up city centre

‘CHRISTMAS BEST’: The festive lights have been switched on in Hull city centre.

Hull’s Christmas lights have been switched on overnight to brighten up the city centre and provide visitors will some festive cheer.

In a change to the usual switch-on event, which attracts thousands of people each year, a drone was used by Hull City Council to capture the moment the 45,600 lights were turned on.

As well as the 45ft Norway Spruce in Queen Victoria Square, a 15ft tree has this year also been added to the Museums Quarter, alongside a new lighting scheme.

It has taken around six weeks to install lights on Ferensway, Carr Lane, Jameson Street, King Edward Street and Saville Street trees, as well as Lowgate, Alfred Gelder Street and Whitefriagate.

Hull New Theatre Gardens, Queen Victoria Square and Hepworth Arcade also have their own displays and, for the first time, lampposts on the Marina and in Trinity Square have been decorated.

Councillor Dave Craker, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, said: “With the absence of a large event this year, we were really keen to ensure that as national lockdown is lifted and non-essential shops reopen, the city centre is looking it’s Christmas best.

“With the city currently in Tier 3 of restrictions, the displays offer a wonderful, festive and most importantly safe outdoor space for our residents to enjoy.

“It is vital to remember that when you are out in the city centre, you continue to observe advice on staying a safe distance apart from those not in your household, wear masks anywhere it is required and observe the rule of six, which has been reintroduced in all areas as the national restriction ended and tiers returned.”