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Bournemouth festive light trail returns to Lower Gardens

Soul Motion Media / @soulmotionmedia Bournemouth ice rink, and Christmas market from the airSoul Motion Media / @soulmotionmedia
The festive ice rink, market and light trail - pictured here in 2022 - are all under way

Bournemouth's annual festive light trail launches later, with walk-through installations including a light tunnel and illuminated trees.

Christmas Tree Wonderland, in Lower Gardens, includes new features as well as "old favourites", organisers said.

The free event, organised by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, will be open until 1 January.

The town's Alpine market and ice skating rink opened on Thursday.

Soul Motion Media / @soulmotionmedia Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland view from the air in 2022Soul Motion Media / @soulmotionmedia
The Christmas lights, shown here in 2022, attract thousands of visitors

The trail is being sponsored by Bournemouth Coastal BID (Business Improvement District).

Coastal BID manager Fiona McArthur said thousands of residents come to see the lights each year, as well as visitors to the town who stay in hotels, generating "significant income for those businesses".

Culture councillor Andy Martin said: "We know people may be struggling with the cost of living, but this free light trail gives everyone the chance to come and enjoy the lights and really get into the festive spirit, making some great memories along the way."

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