THE MAYOR of Droitwich has hit out at thieves who stole the lights from the town’s main Christmas tree in Victoria Square, shortly before the Spa’s big switch-on.
Coun Bob Brookes contacted The Standard about the issue which was discovered on Saturday (November 29).
Because some of the lights were not due to be installed until the actual day, organisers were unsure as to whether the contractors or sub-contractors still had to put those particular lights on or not. But, after phone calls to those involved, it was found they had been taken.
Luckily, Droitwich Town Council worked hard to resolve the situation with the help of provider Festival Lighting, which provided the replacement lights free of charge.
Coun Brookes said: “Thanks to prompt action by the town council, the lights switch-on event was not marred by the actions of a few thoughtless individuals, and I call on local residents to be vigilant and report anything that will help bring these criminals to justice.”
Pam Craney, the Droitwich Town Clerk, said she was very disappointed by the theft.
“It’s the council taxpayers which would have had to foot the bill if it hadn’t been for Festival Lighting.
“It makes it worse that this was at the start of the festive season.”
She praised Festive Lighting for donating the replacement lights and assistant clerk Mark Keld, Alex Sinton and Anne Taft from the town council for their organisation on the day.
Shaun Moore, the director of Festival Lighting, said the firm had been working with Droitwich Town Council on the Christmas lights projects for nine years and was happy to help out.
“We have been pleased to work with them and they have been very good to us.
“When we found out what had happened we did all we could to help out.”
Witnesses to the theft or anyone with any information should call Droitwich Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
