Christmas forest light trail cancelled due to storm

A Christmas lights event at a West Lothian country park has been cancelled due to storm damage of the forest.

Starry Nights attracts thousands of revellers each year on a trail through illuminated trees in Beecraigs Country Park.

However, despite "dedicated efforts" to complete "extensive remediation works" following damage to the trees, the event has been pulled for 2025.

Organisers GC Live Limited are seeking agreement from West Lothian Council that their current five-year agreement can be terminated early. They have offered to make an "exit payment" of £30,000 to the council.

Council officers are actively exploring options for future events.

Significant storm damage in the park has led to major works involving tree surgeons, tree inspectors, rangers, and external contractors.

The local authority said: "Changes in market conditions, particularly due to increased storm risk, have made it impossible for event organisers, GC Live, to secure the level of insurance required to safely host the event.

"Following discussions between West Lothian Council and GC Live to explore the option of an alternative venue, it was agreed that the remaining timescales would not allow for the necessary site inspections, planning processes, or licensing to take place in time."