PETER Levy of BBC Look North and Radio Leeds has the task of lighting up Burley-in-Wharfedale this weekend.

The village Christmas lights will be switched on at 4.30pm on Saturday outside Burley Grange, after some traditional carol singing. This will be followed by a firework display.

Burley Community Council member Tom Sumner said: "The last three Saturdays have seen a band of dedicated volunteers working hard to put up Burley's Christmas lights, a 30 ft Christmas tree and the very popular Christmas crib outside the Grange, as well as new features and extra lights."

Mr Sumner said the tree on the village green, generously donated by a local resident, will be lit up for the first time, thanks to another villager who donated the money to make this possible.

"Thanks also must go to the local businesses.

"It is only because of their good nature and generosity that the lights are so successful - whether it is the shopkeepers who allow us to plug into their electricity supply or businesses who have made donations," said Mr Sumner.

The Community Council would like to thank Country Corner for providing a 30 ft Christmas tree at cost price and Pri-cast Ltd for a large donation towards the cost of new features.

"Donations are always needed to cover the cost of the lights, a further 800 replacement bulbs have been purchased this year at a cost of £460.

"Unfortunately one of the businesses whose electricity we have used has moved this year and we are now on the look out for another generous business to help light up part of Station Road," said Mr Sumner.

"Finally, the Community Council would like to thank all the people who have turned out to help put up the lights," he said.

Refreshments for the big switch on will be served from The Roundhouse from 3.45pm.

Santa will be making his usual visit and giving sweets to the children.

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