Springfields Fireworks and Christmas lights switch-on 2020: This is the latest

It has been confirmed that this year's annual fireworks extravanganza at Springfields Outlet and Leisure is unable to go ahead due to COVID.

However, the team is still promising a 'magical Christmas experience' with its free Winter Wonderland Walk opening from October 29 and running until January 3. Santa will not be in his grotto at the centre this year but will be busy making sure presents are ready. Children can post their letters to Santa at the postbox at Springfields.

The outlet will still have its dazzling lights and decorations up, but its big Christmas lights switch-on event has also had to be cancelled.

Last year saw the actor and Spandau Ballet bassist Martin Kemp press the magic button. Previous years have seen Peter Andre and Cold Feet's John Thomson also do the honours.

Both the lights switch-on and fireworks events attract large crowds and organisers said the events could not go ahead due to COVID restrictions.

A statement from Springfields reads: "Springfields Outlet and Leisure is creating a magical Christmas experience this year starting on October 29 and running all the way through to January 3, with the free Winter Wonderland Walk through the Festival Gardens and its spectacular display of lights and seasonal effects.

"There are four themed areas including the Deer Park, Toadstools & Candy Canes, Penguin Hangout and Woodland Wonder.

"The whole of Springfields is designed as a Christmas experience with lights and decorations throughout.

"Santa is isolating this year, and busy with making sure the Christmas presents are ready, but he will be providing a special postbox in the centre of the centre, in Dutch Square, from November 5 for children to write and send their special Christmas requests to him.

"With over 50 outlets, restaurants and cafés set in 25 acres of Festival Gardens, the whole experience is COVID-secure and, with late night opening from November 18, there is even more reason to step into the Christmas experience at Springfields."