Storm Bert washes out Christmas Lights across Greater Manchester

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A number of events have been cancelled due to the adverse weather brought by Storm Bert. Snow, heavy rain and high winds have seen major roads closed and flood alerts issued across the UK.

In Greater Manchester, two major events have been cancelled as a result. In Alderley Edge, the annual Christmas Lights switch on has been cancelled.

Sharing the news on social media, Cllr Ali Bates, Chair of Alderley Edge Parish Council said: "The safety and comfort of our community and visitors are our top priority.

Whilst it's heartbreaking to cancel such a beloved event, we believe it's the responsible decision. READ MORE: LIVE UK weather: Storm Bert brings snow, wind and rain - latest updates "We are immensely grateful for the tireless efforts of our councillors, volunteers, local businesses and partners who have worked for months planning this annual festive celebration. "The council will manually illuminate the Christmas lights over the weekend to ensure the village remains festive and bright." In Shaw, Oldham, the Christmas Lights switch on has had a major change which will see the event move indoors. “A lot of work, and fundraising, goes on throughout the year to pay for the event which signals the start of Christmas celebrations across Shaw and Crompton,” said local Lib Dem councillor Howard Sykes. “It is therefore bitterly disappointing to see that the event has had to be moved inside and substantially scaled back due Storm Bert which has prevented structures being erected on Market Street and with only limited parts of the planned programme taking place in Playhouse 2 and the British Legion on Newtown Street. “It would be remiss however not to recognise and thank this dedicated band of volunteers for their efforts over