THIS year’s Christmas lights switch-on in Rishton will coincide with a local fair, it has been announced.

The official switch-on will take place on November 29, during the Rishton Free Gardeners Christmas Fair.

Mayor of Hyndburn, Coun Judith Addison, and MP Graham Jones will attend, and there will be a short carol service at 6.30pm on the corner of Parker Street.

Various stalls will feature arts, crafts, and mulled wine.

Coun Ken Moss said: “We have taken the decision to alternate between switch-ons at Rishton Library, and Parker Street corner, from now on as we have two Christmas trees, but it always takes place at the same one.

“This way, people who might not be able to walk up the hill to the library can come along if they wish.”

The two large Christmas trees at Parker Street and the library will be a permanent fixture as living trees are to be planted.

Coun Moss added: “The new trees will cost £500 each and be around two-and-a-half metres tall, which is smaller than we are used to, but will save the council a considerable amount each year.”

However, next year’s switch-on could be affected by rising costs, Coun Moss warned.

He said: “2013 is all sorted, which we are very pleased about, but we are actively looking at how to save money in future years.”