Storm Darragh Prompts Additional Cancellations of Festive Events

A number of Christmas-themed events throughout Shropshire have been called off as Storm Darragh traverses the nation. Yellow weather advisories for wind have been issued for the upcoming weekend, anticipating wind speeds reaching up to 50mph. Attingham Park, situated in Atcham, declared a full closure to all visitors on Saturday, citing safety concerns. The Christmas Parade in Oswestry, originally scheduled for Saturday, was similarly cancelled by the Oswestry Borderland Rotary Club. Furthermore, Attingham Park confirmed the cancellation of its Christmas in the Mansion and Attingham at Dusk events for Saturday, alongside its Father Christmas at Sunnycroft event planned for both Saturday and Sunday. The park stated that full refunds would be issued for all reservations. The park indicated a phased reopening commencing at 10:00 GMT on Sunday, as its ranger team “carries out essential post-storm safety checks”. It specified that “If safe, Attingham Park will only be open for pre-booked ticket holders.” The Victorian Christmas event at Blists Hill Victorian Town in Telford, scheduled for Saturday, was cancelled, with the Ironbridge Gorge Trust announcing it would provide alternative dates for those holding tickets. In addition, the trust confirmed that Coalport China Museum, Jackfield Tile Museum, and the Old Furnace, all under its ownership, would be closed on Saturday. It further stated that its museums are expected to resume normal operations on Sunday. Ludlow Castle declared a complete closure for both Saturday and Sunday. A spokesperson indicated that its “meet Father Christmas” event would be moved to a different location, and individuals with prior bookings would receive a complimentary return visit. Multiple flood alerts have been activated throughout the county as a result of the storm. Transport for Wales advised that its services might experience short-notice delays, changes, and cancellations, and encouraged passengers to verify their travel plans. The 21:29 train service from Shrewsbury to Llandrindod on Friday was cancelled owing to the severe weather conditions. On Thursday, Bridgnorth Town Council postponed its Christmas lights switch-on ceremony, which had been scheduled for Friday evening. The council stated that the lights would be illuminated at a secure time during the weekend. Separately, Madeley Town Council deferred its touring Santa Christmas float, originally planned for Friday and Saturday, rescheduling it for subsequent dates. Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre similarly declared that it would not proceed as planned on Saturday.