THE much-loved Dalton Christmas lights switch-on had to be cancelled this year due to snow.

The town's residents are now being encouraged to keep their purposefully decorated umbrellas however for Christmas Eve.

Every year, hundreds of locals gather in Tudor Square for the event which also has the spectacular River of Light umbrella parade.

The event was planned for Saturday (December 2) and Cando FM were set to be at Market Place to compere the live music stage with children ready to meet Santa in his grotto in the square. 

Mayor Nick Perie was then going to commence with the big switch-on at 5pm.

Unfortunately, an unprecedented amount of snow came down on Saturday with a yellow weather warning issued for Cumbria and police declaring the occurrence a 'major incident'.

Many festive events due to take place at the weekend across the Furness region have had to be re-scheduled, however Dalton's Christmas lights switch-on could not be.

Dalton South Councillor, Dave J Taylor, said: "Unfortunately, the event couldn't be moved due to the logistics such as road closures and rebooking of acts  - which are all booked up now.

"There was a lot of work that went into the planning including stage and lighting and food and drink concessions."

The Mail: A festive umbrella previously created for the River of Light Parade'One of the organisers, Kerry Kosak, added: "Ultimately safety has to come first and I am very grateful that the community understood and accepted this.

"The police had advised against unnecessary travel and it was dangerous underfoot. December is a very busy time for everyone and it was impossible to reschedule."

Kerry has encouraged anyone who made an umbrella for the parade to save their creations for Christmas Eve. On December 24, St Mary's Church is hosting carols around the cross at 6pm.

She said: "We would encourage everyone to take their decorated umbrellas to the carol service, so instead of the River of Light we planned, we can still light up Dalton in a different way and come together as a community - which is what Dalton does best.

"Anyone who is interested in helping with next year's plans can get in touch with me on 07463 149619 for further details."