An embarrassing Christmas decoration error has left a city feeling like a "laughing stock" as people fume at the terrible mishap. People living in Ripon, North Yorkshire, were left scratching their heads when their festive lights were finally turned on.
Where it should have said "Merry Christmas Ripon" in neon lights, a blunder meant that the "a" was facing backwards.
The Ripon locals are unfortunately going to have to live with the embarrassment, as bosses have confirmed the mistake can only be corrected when they are taken down next month.
One astonished local Paddy raged: "It makes Ripon look a laughing stock. People have paid for these lights. So they should be correct!".
Another, Caz, remarked: "Oh dear, where was the proof reader?"
When she saw the lights, Sara said: "It looks great but isn't it the wrong way round?," while Beverley Bowden joked: "Maybe it was discounted?"
Meanwhile, Andrew Williams, leader of Ripon City Council in North Yorks, said it was an "unfortunate situation", but a genuine mistake". He also reminded locals that there are bigger problems in the world at the moment, including the dire situation in Ukraine.
He stressed there was "nothing that could be done this year" but thanked those that showed their support for the wonky decorations.
Explaining why it can't be fixed yet, Andrew said: "It's unfortunate but it can't be corrected until it's taken down because it has to be angle-grinded off," which can't be done until next year.
He added that "there are much bigger problems in the world in the moment, which is why we've decided to leave the sign up rather than simply have it taken down."
Taking to Facebook, he Facebook : "We have a new contractor this year who apart from the 'a' being the wrong way round have done a very good job."
Andrew added: "It is unfortunate but at least we have lights in our homes and in our streets unlike many in Ukraine."
Although there were several complaints, many also found the situation funny, with one person saying; "I personally find it quite funny. It it makes people smile. Most people haven't even noticed!"
Another local Kelly said: "I had a good giggle when I saw it."
Meanwhile, Janice said "It's not the end of the world," and that you'd think people would be more "bothered about being able to light their homes more than a Christmas light".
What do you think about the light blunder? Let us know in the comments below.
