Lincoln Business Improvement Group have once again encountered damage with one of the Lincoln Christmas Light Trail structures.
Lincoln BIG have been working with Fizzco Projects to illuminate the city this festive period to welcome visitors and residents into Lincoln and to look to put Lincoln on the map as a place to visit over Christmas.
The reindeer was installed along with the other illuminations for the Christmas light switch on event in November and has been a massive highlight this year as Lincoln BIG look to build on the popularity of last year’s light trail.
Unfortunately, as with last year, the lights have been damaged. This occurrence is the third instance on the reindeer this year, with the previous two being repaired. Unfortunately, the reindeer cannot be repaired this time and for the duration of it being out, it will only be partially lit.
Lee Roberts, head of operations for Lincoln BIG, said: “I am extremely disappointed and frustrated that yet again the Christmas lights have been damaged. We have been planning hard for months how to dress the city differently this year and how we can welcome everyone to Lincoln and showcase the city during challenging times for everyone.
“Building on last year and the success of the light trail concept, our aim this year was to provide opportunities for people to explore Lincoln and make lasting memories for themselves and their families. A lot of hard work, time and money has been invested in the Christmas illuminations and it is extremely disappointing that yet again the actions of a mindless individual or small group of individuals has had a negative impact on the city.
“We have been planning how to make these additional features bigger and better for 2023 and beyond, but this consistent battle against vandalism and damage makes us question whether this type of animation is right for the city. For next year we may have to put the lights behind barriers to avoid damage. I want to thank everyone who has managed to enjoy the light trail this year without the need to damage the lights and we apologise for the partially lit reindeer.”
Fizzco’s founder and company director, Wendy Clarkson, explains: “Fizzco has worked with Lincoln BIG all year to plan and create something magical for Christmas in Lincoln. Unfortunately, and frustratingly the continued vandalism of the Giant 7-metre Reindeer has led to extensive time and labour commitments as well as financial expense for both our company and Lincoln BIG.
“Something that was meant to be a new and exciting addition to the Festive Light trail for everyone in Lincoln to enjoy has been ruined by a few individuals without care or thought for others in their community. This is now the second year in a row that Christmas features in Lincoln have been vandalised over the Christmas period, making it challenging when planning to expand the Light Trail in 2023.”
