A CAMPAIGN to secure the long-term future of Ilkley's Christmas lights display has been launched this week.

Ilkley should not have to 'make do and mend' each year with its Christmas lights display, it has been claimed.

The town's Christmas lights working party officially launched its campaign through the Ilkley Gazette - to banish the prospect of a future with no festive lighting at all.

Group co-ordinator Miggy Bailey said: "Once September is upon us people start commenting how close to Christmas it is."

Mrs Bailey is hoping to secure financial commitment from Ilkley businesses to make sure the annual scramble for funds becomes a thing of the past.

"Since the parish council took on the task of organising the Christmas lights two years ago, the support from the town has enabled a reasonable display to continue.

"However a working group has been formed this year with representatives from the Independent Traders Group to look at improving the display.

"A plan of how the Christmas lights could look with new features over the next five years has been prepared by a major lighting firm," said Mrs Bailey.

She added: "I think the way forward is through obtaining an annual income through standing orders, from businesses."

Businesses could form together in 'zones' of the town - paying for their particular zone's display.

Mrs Bailey would like the Ilkley public to get behind the plan and contribute to a successful 1998 display.

"People moan about Bradford Council not paying for lights but they should remember that the council matches the money we raise, pound for pound up to £5,000," said Mrs Bailey.

Mrs Bailey hopes the public and the town's business community will accept an end to the 'make do and mend' policy.

Donations (Mrs Bailey would like £100, £50, £25 or 'other') can be sent to the Parish Clerk, Ilkley Town Hall, Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 8HB (tel 01943 436212).

Any businesses wanting to set up a sponsorship arrangement should contact Mrs Bailey at Ilkley Town Hall. She will be happy to provide further details.

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