A VIRTUAL show broadcast online in place of Barrow’s traditional annual Christmas lights switch has been watched by more people than ever before.
The popular event regularly attracts around 4,000 people to the town centre each year.
But an online alternative - filmed in advance and shown on Barrow Borough Council’s YouTube channel - has so far secured more than double this amount, with 9,200 views from locations all over the world.
Councillor Ann Thomson, the leader of Barrow Borough Council, thanked all those involved in organising the film which showcased a raft of talent from across the area.
“So much time and hard work went into creating this film so we wouldn’t miss out on a Christmas lights switch on this year.
“My thanks go to everyone involved in putting it together and also to those who took part. It was simply superb.
“We may have been physically apart this year but this film certainly brought us together as a community once more. What a fantastic way to spread some festive cheer.”
The packed 90 minute show went live online at 5pm on Sunday, November 29.
It was organised by volunteers Denis and Beth Horan of Ultimate Events with the assistance of staff from The Forum and an army of helpers across the area.
The film featured a stellar line up of performers and entertainers, carols and songs from school children and messages from a range of people and organisations.
It culminated with the official switch on of the town centre illuminations by the competition winners.
Beth Horan said: “It certainly took a lot of work to create the show but we are overwhelmed that so many people have enjoyed it.
“We knew that it wouldn’t be safe for the Christmas lights switch on to go ahead in the usual way, with so many people standing together, but we didn’t want everyone to miss out on such a wonderful community event.
“We’re thrilled it was such a success and hope it delivered some much needed sparkle and cheer after we’ve all had such a difficult year.
“Our thanks again go to everyone who helped make this happen and also to our sponsors BAE Systems and Barrow BID, The Forum and Barrow Borough Council.”
The event will remain online and can be viewed here