ONE week on from Ilminster’s secret lights switch on which saw no crowd or Victorian events, Chard’s team have followed suit.

This year has seen the Chard Town Team, the group of volunteers responsible for the lights, dd a number of new illuminations.

There are also almost 100 trees in place outside town centre shops and businesses.

Cllr Jason Baker, the mayor of Chard and a volunteer, said: “This year things have been very different for us at the Town Team and we have had to work differently to get the Christmas lights up this year.

“We have been busy working over the last few months to get all of the lights mended and serviced ready for this year’s display.

“We have added quite a lot of new lights this year including a new display in Holyrood Street.

“There are also nearly 100 Christmas trees outside shops and business.”

Although the Chard Town Team was unable to enjoy the usual crowd-drawing switch on event, they did create a virtual switch on.

The moment was filmed with the aid of Chard photo and video business Warner Vision and can still be viewed on the Chard Town Team’s Facebook page.

In a bid to see the town shine warm and bright during the festive period, the mayor has also launched a competition.

Just share photos or video of your impressive lights show online for a chance to win.

Cllr Baker added: “The Town Team have been amazing this year and have put on an amazing display to brighten up our town centre.

“I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in this years display.

“This year I would like to see Chard sparkle with as many Christmas lights as possible to brighten up our town and to bring some cheer to Chard.

“I would like to invite everyone who has decorated their house, garden or business to enter our competition at mayorslockdownlightupforchristmas.questionpro.com.

“Or, you can do it via The Mayor of Chard Facebook page. Entries will close on Sunday, December 13.

“Judging will take place in the week commencing December 14.”

Prizes will be awarded to the winners of various categories, including:

  • Best lit house / bungalow in each ward of Chard,
  • Best Christmas window in each ward of Chard
  • Best shop window, and,
  • Overall winners