For the second time in less than 12 months an event organised by the York Council and labelled as a “Wonderland” has proved to be a big let down for residents.

Visitors to the Illuminating York event in the Museums Garden have described the event as “lack lustre”, drab and “disappointing”. It contrasts with the enthusiastic reception given to the festival in previous years.

The budget for the whole festival – much of which it was hoped would be recovered from admission ticket sales – was around £300,000. Unlike previous feature events at the festival, which had free admission, the main event has a £5 ticket charge, with restricted admission times.

There are lessons to be learned in “over hyping” unproven events and we expect the Council to undertake an independent scrutiny review of what ahs gone wrong.

There are now concerns that other events being staged under the Illuminating York banner may suffer as a result of the bad publicity.

Fortunately the Illuminating York Minster programme has been a big success with the new “Orb” hailed as a unique visitor experience. Click here http://illuminatingyork.org.uk/supporting-programme-2012/ for details of other events

NB Another “Wonderland” experience – a Christmas Grotto – was organised by the Council last winter and was also heavily criticised by customers. A few weeks ago the bill for the “Grotto” had still not been paid.