Lights display to bring cheer to park throughout January

Wednesday, 14 January 2026 10:35

By Andy Bolton

A lights festival which brought plenty of cheer to a Fylde coast park over Christmas and New Year will continue to shine throughout January.

The Winter Lights Festival was first launched in East Pines Park in Anchorsholme back in November as part of an ambitious 10 year project for the popular green space.

Designed to bring light, colour, and cheer to residents during the darkest months of the year, the project will see new installations added annually — with ambitious plans to make it one of the best community-led lights festivals in the North West.

The initiative was spearheaded by Anchorsholme ward Councillors Paul Galley and Anita Cooper, who say it has been warmly received by residents.

Inspired by a similar community celebration Councillor Galley saw in the West Midlands, the aim was to recreate that same warmth and wonder in Anchorsholme.

Working closely alongside Councillor Anita Cooper and the Friends of East Pines Park, the project has been hailed as a true community success story, lifting spirits and enhancing wellbeing at a time when many people struggle most.

Councillor Galley said: “At this time of year, when the days are at their darkest, these lights symbolise hope, warmth and togetherness.

“The response from the community has been overwhelming, with so many kind messages and compliments about the happiness they’ve brought. It’s been a genuine uplift for local wellbeing.”

Cllr Anita Cooper said: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible Friends of the Park.

“Their hard work, passion and commitment have made this possible along with all the support of the public and the Council officers who helped us install the lights.”

The councillors said plans were already forming to make future Winter Lights displays even bigger and more spectacular.