A MARKET town could be left in the dark this Christmas because of fears over the safety of its festive lights.

The usual seasonal display in Barnard Castle could be a dim reflection of previous years because of new safety regulations on Christmas lights introduced by Durham County Council.

The regulations could also leave the town without lights on its Christmas tree, because of complications with wiring, caused by the new lighting regulations.

Tighter checks on festive displays were introduced after a fatal accident in Gateshead two years ago, when a lamp-post bearing lights collapsed.

Durham County Council has ruled that in the future any local authority wishing to hang additional items such as Christmas decorations on its lamp-posts must apply for a licence six months in advance.

The county council has, however, waived the six-month rule this year, and in July encouraged local authorities to put in their applications.

The county council confirmed it had not yet received an application from Barnard Castle Town Council.

Town councillor John Yarker said: "I understand the county council has to prioritise safety, but we could be looking at a very dim festive display indeed - which is sad news for residents, especially children and businesses in the town."

The town's Christmas tree is scheduled to be put up on November 19, followed by the motifs and lights on November 26