Christmas lights.

I don't think the lights have been the same since the, then, O.i.C. retired himself.

I hope the following isn't ©, it's free to see on ye olde web thingy.

(Link NACKERED)

"The Chamber of Trade and Commerce have therefore been formulating ways in which to improve the overall appearance and promotion of the town during the festive season.

The Chamber of Trade and Commerce takes the view that the lights and the events which surrounds it should promote business in town encourage visitors and raise the profile of Penrith.  Unfortunately, the Chamber feels that in its current format the Christmas lights do not achieve this objective and, as a result, a motion was passed at the May general business meeting to scale down the Christmas Lights and find new alternative ways to promote businesses in the town over this time.

"By looking at alternative ways of celebrating Christmas in Penrith we can encourage more visitors to the town which will provide a boost to business for everyone.  We want to encourage all businesses to get involved, dress their shops, put up lights, run competitions and special offers so we can make a really big impact over the Christmas period." Comments Philip Cranston, President of Penrith Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

As a result the Chamber are proposing that a few areas of the town will be decorated, and decorated to a high standard, in particular the Monument, which will provide the main focal point, and a substantial Christmas tree, placed prominently in the town centre."