SUNDERLAND has cancelled the traditional switching on of its Christmas lights - for the time being.
The event was supposed to take place on Thursday and feature former X-Factor finalist Andrea Faustini.
Andrea Winders of Sunderland Live said: "Given the national weather forecast of high winds and rain, we have regretfully decided to postpone the Christmas Switch-On event.
"The decision was only taken after carefully considering the safety and comfort of spectators, and we will be announcing a new date as soon as possible.
"The switch-on event is one the most popular events in the city’s Christmas calendar and we want as many people as possible to be able to enjoy it when better weather conditions allow."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here