PEOPLE in one Ryedale village have enjoyed this year’s Christmas lights switch-on - but with a twist.

Because of the current Covid-19 restrictions, villagers in Thornton-le-Dale were unable to gather in their thousands as usual to witness the 34-year tradition.

So instead, the festivities were videoed for everyone to enjoy safely from their own homes – and thousands have already viewed it.

The video, which was put together by County Cllr Janet Sanderson, shows the army of volunteers putting up the displays, as well as the festive efforts of Thornton Dale Primary School pupils, and, of course, the lights switch-on.

Dave Andrews, chairman of the Christmas Lights Committee, said: “The committee consulted about the lights display, with a risk assessment of our ability to work safely and the willingness of volunteers to participate.

“Overwhelmingly the volunteers said yes. The people of the village, with a high proportion of older people, were enduring a regime of gloom and doom and needed/deserved some Christmas cheer provided by a full Christmas lights display as usual.

“North Yorkshire County Council, via Cllr Janet Sanderson, granted £400 to purchase the required PPE and we set about devising safe working processes.”

Dave added: “As chairman of the Thornton-le-Dale Christmas Lights, I am privileged to see the enthusiasm, commitment and hard work of the community volunteers.

“There are too many to thank personally, much as I would love to do, but the village has its Christmas cheer and on behalf of all the residents, I say happy Christmas and thank you to everyone who contributed.”

Cllr Janet Sanderson said: “After a year like no other, myself and other members of the village felt the Christmas cheer brought by the light switch on was vital and needed.”

“I’d like to thank everyone who took part and helped,” she added.

The video can be viewed at youtu.be/T5dCsgp45nk