SUMMER may be fast approaching, but Christmas lights are already high on the Hexham Town Council agenda.

At last Monday night’s meeting, councillors unanimously agreed to combine an under-spend from last year into this year’s budget, leaving a grand total of £13,500 to ensure the town sparkles for the festive season.

Coun. Trevor Cessford confirmed that a company called Millennium Quest had been appointed to roll out a series of improvements.

“There will be lights on Battle Hill, Fore Street and at the top of Market Street,” said Coun. Cessford.

Newly-appointed mayor Tom Gillanders confirmed the switch-on ceremony would move back to the bandstand following its refurbishment. He added: “The project will include lighting above the bandstand and on Priestpopple if the necessary electricity boxes can be installed.”