A man formerly responsible for Biggleswade Christmas lights says he is bemused that a new contractor has been brought in.
The Harris family put up the town’s illuminations for more than 40 years.
Jamie Harris, of Sun Street, has installed them for the last 20 years and before that it was the responsibility of his father Stanley.
But this summer Jamie’s tender to Biggleswade Town Council for a new three-year contract was turned down in favour of a rival bid.
The council says it now wants to hire out the lights rather than have permanent ownership of them.
Jamie has also refuted reports that any of the lights or equipment he was using were out-of-date.
He said: “There are no sour grapes – it’s the council’s money and their decision.
“I was just surprised that in a time of austerity they have decided to spend more money on a new display when the previous one was being constantly updated and has always been popular.”
He added: “It’s also untrue that the lights or equipment are 40 years old. I brought in new wire ropes in 2008 and I started replacing the previous bulbs with new LED ones in 2009.
“I also have a 100 per cent health and safety record and all of my installations have passed annual checks.”
Readers expressed their disappointment about the new lights on the Biggleswade Chronicle Facebook page.
Dave Golder said: “Sounds like the council once again skimping.”
Michelle Flynn added: “Biggleswade has one of the best rural Christmas light displays I have seen!
“It would be a dreadful shame to lose something so wonderful and unique.”
Madeline Russell, chairman of the council’s off-street car parking committee, which is responsible for the lights, said: “Mr Harris submitted a tender which was considered by councillors.
“It wasn’t taken further because he wanted to buy new lights as part of the tender, but the council prefers a contract where we hire the lights so they can be changed from year to year if necessary.
“We are spending £13,500 on the lights this year – more than before – so we are certainly not skimping.”