Months of preparation went into the Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens At Christmas event in Romsey, but a setback occurred when £80,000 worth of copper cabling was stolen. The team at Light Up Trails discovered the theft just as they were getting ready for the show’s launch, causing a disruption in their plans.
The gardens had to be closed over the weekend due to Storm Bert, and when staff returned on Monday to assess the damage, they realized that the cabling had been stolen. Despite this setback, the team worked tirelessly to source replacements and had technicians working through the night to ensure everything was up and running for the show.
In addition to the stolen cables, a quantity of sweets and fizzy drinks were also taken, leaving the organizers puzzled about the motive behind the theft. Tracy Randall from Sir Harold Hillier Gardens expressed her devastation over the incident, highlighting the efforts put in by Light Up Trails and the impact on the registered charity.
Despite the challenges, crews are working non-stop to ensure that the show opens to the public as scheduled. Last year, the event attracted an estimated 72,000 visitors, and organizers are hopeful for a similar turnout this year. The show is set to launch at 16:30 GMT and will run until 1 January.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary are investigating the break-in, and security measures have been increased to prevent further incidents. Despite the adversity, the organizers are determined to showcase resilience and ensure that the Christmas lights show proceeds as planned, demonstrating their commitment to the community.
The Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens At Christmas event is not just a display of lights but a symbol of unity and perseverance in the face of challenges. The community’s support and the dedication of the organizers are evident in their efforts to overcome the theft and deliver a spectacular show for all to enjoy during the festive season.
