THORNBURY’S annual Christmas fair was unfortunately cancelled last night due to weather concerns from the high winds predicted from Storm Barney.

The Christmas Lights switch-on, which is incorporated into the fair, was the only feature that remained of the evening’s plans, with the numerous stalls and fairground rides having to be cancelled.

“The weather has been quite frustrating, it was an obvious decision to cancel the majority of the attractions for everyone’s safety,” said Mayor Guy Rawlinson at the ceremony.

He added: “It is disappointing, not just for us and for the public, but also for the people running the attractions.

“But given there is virtually nothing here today due to the weather, it is fantastic that people have made the effort to come out for the switch on.

“It is the sign of a strong community, something we all know Thornbury to have.”

Despite the lack of attractions, several hundred people still turned out for the switch-on which marks a new record as over 100 buildings in the town being involved in this year’s display.

As the chosen even for the charity, members of the Armstrong Hall redevelopment project group were collecting money throughout the event.

Also showing support for the Armstrong Hall was Bristol Old Vic theatre manager Andrew Stocker who was invited to switch on the display with Mayor Rawlinson and competition winner and local businesswoman Lizzie Lindsell.

“The Armstrong Hall means a lot to the Old Vic as we tour here every year,” said Mr Stocker.

“It’s great to know how much the hall and this event means to the community for so many people to brave the weather.”

“It is a shame that so much has been cancelled but I am still quite in awe of being given the chance to do this,” said Miss Lindsell, who had planned to sell her home-made biscuits on a stall before the last minute cancellations.

“Seeing all my friends and family turn up for this is really lovely, almost like I have a fan club.”