Thornton Manor in Thornton Hough was to have been the setting for a magical, motorised Christmas experience between December 4 and January 3 next year.

"Completely contactless and Covid safe, our stunning in-car sound experience will enhance your tour as you drive from zone to spectacular zone, ranging from our spellbinding lakeside Northern Lights show to the wonders of our enchanting LED meadow show."

That was the billing for an experience set in the Manor's private park and landscaped gardens, open to the public for the very first time. Its attractions also included a Cathedral of Light, Forest of Lasers, the Woods of Wonder, Singing Trees, Vortex Tunnel and Spectacular Snowscape.

Ambition was high, and perhaps too much so, because the magic of Winter Wonderlight couldn't sustain it beyond the opening weekend.

On social media, ticket buyers were both disappointed and understanding.

"Yes got an email saying it was cancelled a couple of hours ago. Sad will just have to wait to get my money back."

"Bloody great." (Angry face emoji.)

"Such a shame. Well done for trying to put together a festive, family event under the current circumstances."

A statement from the Manor's Winter Wonderland team said: "It is with deep regret that we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year's Winter WonderLight event at Thornton Manor.

"The first year of launching such a technically demanding event under challenging circumstances, with two lockdowns and ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, meant the third party production company were not able to meet expectations.

"Our thanks and apologies to those fantastic customers that supported us and bought tickets to our event. The show will go on, Winter WonderLight will launch next year and it will reflect the magic and excitement of Thornton Manor and our customers' high standards.

"We were thrilled to be opening our stunning gardens and grounds to the public for the first time, and our enthusiasm to deliver next year has not been dampened."