Coventry's Christmas lights go up in mid-September!

[dutchman]

We have not even had Halloween yet



Christmas lights have gone up in Coventry centre despite it being mid-September. Festive decorations were spotted in the Upper Precinct shopping area on September 15.

Strings of lights link the buildings and glimmer when they are switched on at night. Coventry City Council confirmed to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) today that the lights are for Christmas.

They also said they are planning something "really exciting" in the area. Cllr Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, said, “The lights that have gone up in the Upper Precinct are part of the Christmas decorations.

"These lights were used for the first time last year and they made a real impression – looking fantastic above the water features, greenery and art. "We are also planning something really exciting in Broadgate which we will be able to use for a range of festivals and celebrations."

But the appearance of the lights wasn't welcomed by everyone. On Twitter, user @MCFCLondon posted a video with the caption: "beautiful but is this really where my Council Tax is going in SEPTEMBER?.

"Most have cancelled. And as it's so early I asked if it's for Diwali."

Some UK councils have opted to cancel their Christmas light switch-ons due to the cost of living crisis. Guildford and Ely are among the authorities to have axed the public celebrations.

Last year, hundreds of people attended the Christmas lights switch-on at Broadgate in Coventry. The event featured music, dancing and fireworks, and took place in mid-November.

[dutchman]

Thank goodness there's no energy crisis or anything!

[rebbonk]

I don't normally check the makeup of my bill, but earlier I did. I am currently being billed approximately £50/month for electricity. Half of that is due to the standing charge!

[dutchman]

£57.65 where I live but there haven't been enough meter readings as yet to provide an accurate estimate.

The previous occupant left without paying the bill or providing any meter readings the whole time she lived here!