WIMBORNE'S festive extravaganza will not be going ahead this year due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

The Wimborne Minster Town Council has announced that the traditional Christmas Light ‘Switch On’ and New Year’s Eve event in the Square will not be going ahead and road closures will not be in place.

Organising events and committing to expenditure for the end of this year have been deemed not sensible by the Town Council and as a result, the annual events will not occur.

However, all is not lost, as plans for the festive season do include a Christmas lighting scheme for the town.

A spokesperson for Wimborne Minster Town Council said: "It is of course a very special time of year that means so much to many people who like to enjoy the atmosphere and celebrate the season, including seeing the streets lit up with festive decorations.

"The Town Council has therefore stepped forward and agreed to fund the Christmas lighting scheme this year, whilst budgetary limitations will mean a slightly reduced scheme, we are pleased that a new supplier has been found who promises something fitting and joyful."

The Son et Lumiere show on the Minster - organised by separate bodies - will also not taking place this year to avoid attracting large crowds to one area.

The spokesperson added: "The Council hopes that residents and visitors will come to town to support the traders and enjoy the lighting scheme whilst being mindful of the current gathering and social distancing guidelines."