PLANS for what could be Minehead’s most ambitious Christmas celebrations for years were unveiled this week by a group of organisations aiming to bring a new festive spirit to the town.

And Graham Sizer, chairman of BID, one of the groups behind the new initiative, said it was hoped this would be the start of a new tradition.

“It’s no secret that last year’s Christmas offerings were a disappointment and we are determined to change that for 2018,” he said.

“If everything goes to plan this could be the start of a new Christmas tradition that could work wonders for the town’s image as a fun place to visit.”

“Minehead might have become something of a poor neighbour when it comes to organising Christmas events.

“Smaller villages in the area seem to pull together and put on impressive entertainments and displays, and Minehead’s Christmas offering was a disappointment to many last year.

“We intend to challenge that impression this Christmas.”

The new Christmas plans, backed by BID, Minehead Town Council, the Chamber of Commerce, the Old Hospital-based Gateway Events organisation and West Somerset Railway, the new Christmas plans are in today’s Free Press.