CHRISTMAS has come early to Barrow town centre.

1.5km of icicle-drop LED lights are currently being set up along a stretch between Portland Walk and Dalton Road, while 2-D stars are being hung between the square in front of the town hall and Portland Walk. On top of that, 21 Christmas trees in the town centre will be decorated with blue flashing lights.

Colin Garnett, manager of Barrow’s Business Improvement District, said: “The festive period is obviously the most important time of the year for retailers.

“We’re looking to create a real festive mood and encourage shoppers to stay local this Christmas. The lights are a big part of that.

“We’ve invested over £20,000 in the new lights. And we’re hoping to show that, although we understand the internet and retail parks may now seem the most convenient option for Christmas buyers, Barrow town centre can offer a unique festive experience that local shoppers won’t want to miss out on”.

The lights are currently being installed by local contractor, Optech, which has set up the festive lights in Barrow for the past 13 years.

Fifteen acts - spanning local performers, school choirs and pantomime - are lined up to backdrop the switching on of the lights on Saturday November 23.

A ‘Santa Dash’ in aid of St Mary’s Hospice will begin at 2:30pm and will end next to the town hall. The lights will then be turned on at 3:30pm .