Candle fever strikes as blackout-fearing Germans revive festive flames

The country has been told the chances of power cuts are low, but demand for old-school wax lighting is hot

Germans are seeking comfort in the warm yellow glow of open flames this Christmas, as a revival of festive traditions coupled with blackout fears make candles the target of the latest stockpiling frenzy.

On Sunday, many German households will follow tradition to light the first of four candles on their Adventskranz wreath, which is typically laid on or hung above the dining-room table.