UNFORTUNATELY, the Light Switch On and Market wasn’t the only thing on Knutsfordians minds at the Christmas Weekend.

Many residents, particularly those living in the town centre, were ‘appalled’ at the overflowing communal, wheelie and street bins and remnants of food strewn across Princess and Regent Street.

Some residents added that the mess wasn’t an isolated incident but a problem they are seeing on a monthly basis due to the establishment of the Artisan Market.

One resident, who lives on Regent Street, said: “As much as we enjoy the artisan and Christmas market in town there is a recurring problem with the disposing of litter that needs to be addressed by the council. Walking through Knutsford at 11pm in the aftermath was a bomb site.

“There was rubbish everywhere, bins were overflowing and tables were left out in the middle of the street preventing residents from driving through.

“As residents, we don’t mind the roads being closed during the market, that is not a problem, but we expect that once it’s over it is cleared properly.

“Regent Street bins are bad enough on a daily basis but with the market there was rubbish piled on top and overflowing still late at night. It’s unacceptable and the council need to pull their finger out.”

Acting Town Clerk Adam Keppel-Garner acknowledged that rubbish was an issue at this year’s Christmas market but said that Knutsford Town Council will be working more closely with Cheshire East Council to ensure the problem is not repeated next year, including an increase in bin provision.

He added: “The Town Council always welcome feedback from residents on our events and if anyone else has any comments on the Christmas Weekend or ideas for improvements we would love to hear them.”

Visit knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk to have your say.