The day’s wet and windy weather has forced local authorities in Peel and Castletown to call off the Christmas events they had planned for this afternoon (Saturday).

Castletown commissioners hope to move their Christmas lights switch on in the square back a day to Sunday.

They said: ’We have just been informed that the situation with the wind means a number of the structures required for the event cannot be safely erected.

’It it currently planned to move the switch on back a day and run it tomorrow and we will update when we hear from the committee. The square is open for parking.’

Peel commissioners have said they still plan to switch the town’s lights on this evening but with no official switch on ceremony.

Talking about the event that had already been postponed once, the town’s clerk said: ’Unfortunately, the weather forecast is poor for tomorrow (Saturday) with strong westerly or north westerly cold winds and heavy wintry showers.

’The strong winds are slightly better than those experienced last weekend with predicted mean speeds of 25 mph and gusting to 35-40mph for Peel.

’These high winds and particularly their direction will have a significant impact in Peel for operating lights and snow machines from raised platforms as well as the stability of the gazebos which are needed to host the planned outdoor market.

’Additionally, the escalation of Covid cases and the reports of new variants has created unease around larger public gatherings where close proximity is difficult to control and formed an important part of the event for children who usually meet Father Christmas.

’The Commissioners apologise for the cancellation of this postponed event and have put in place the arrangements for this year’ s improved festive lighting to be switched on tonight to brighten up the Town for the weekend and on the run up to Christmas period.’