CHRISTMAS decorations in Aberystwyth have been described as “rubbish” and not a patch on those in towns such as rival shopping centre Carmarthen.

While there are some lights in Great Darkgate Street as well as a smaller-than-usual Christmas tree, residents have been asking why there are no lights or just the odd light in other streets.

They are either absent or very scarce on Penglais Hill, North Parade, Alexandra Road, Eastgate, Terrace Road, Chalybeate Street, Bridge Street and Pier Street.

And the promenade, which once had year-round fairy lights before storms in 2014, is looking decidedly unfestive, according to dismayed residents.

Aberystwyth resident Steve Davies said he thought the town council could have made more of an effort to make the town more attractive for shoppers over the festive period.

Mr Davies, 26, said: “The Christmas decorations in town are rubbish this year.

“The way I feel is Aberystwyth hasn’t got many nice shops like Carmarthen, Swansea and other places, and the town council could have made more of an effort to attract people and brighten the place up.

“A couple of years ago, the decorations were a bit better but it seems to have got worse on the high street.”

Cllr Ceredig Davies said the town council had spent £3,000 on the lights but they could have been better if local businesses contributed to the cost.

Cllr Davies told the Cambrian News: “Aberystwyth Town Council has spent over £3,000 on new festive decorations this year; money raised through the precept and paid for by local residents. There was no contribution from the business community.

“The new decorations added to what had been purchased in previous years and have been put up in Penparcau, Trefechan and the town centre.

“Potentially more could be spent on Christmas lights, but there would be less money available for all the other things the town council is responsible for and supports in the area.”

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