Fury as locals mock town’s Christmas tree – ‘What the hell is that?!’

A sparse, drooping 25ft Christmas tree in Darwen Market Square drew criticism from residents ahead of the town’s festive lights switch-on. Blackburn with Darwen Council acknowledged the tree was disappointing and said it would be replaced before the celebrations.

Residents pointed to brown patches and gaps in the foliage, with some joking that it looked as though it had been drinking or that only half a tree had arrived. Councillor Matt Jackson said a resident alerted him to the tree and he agreed it looked sorry, even after considering how it might appear once decorated. The contractor agreed to provide a replacement at no extra cost, expected to be installed on Wednesday; the switch-on is scheduled for Saturday 14 November, with music, markets, rides and family entertainment.