In 2023, Winton’s Christmas lights were cancelled, and BCP Council decided not to provide them any more, as part of ongoing cuts.
Thanks to the fundraising efforts of Karl Payne, director of The Forge Garage in Winton, Winton East Green councillor Chris Rigby was able to work with him and BCP Council to get them back in place for 2024.
Chris Rigby told the Bournemouth Daily Echo: “I’m pleased to be able to assist Karl in his goal of getting Christmas lights back into Winton.
“Since the cuts last year and the ongoing budget problems, I know BCP Council will be unable to fund them again in the near future, so being able to support a local business with this community initiative is a pleasure.
“I hope we can build from here and make the display even better next year. This is the very definition of community action, and Karl deserves a lot of praise for his work on this.
“I’d also love to speak with anyone from our community in Winton who has other ideas of how we can work together to improve Winton East for everyone.”