RESIDENTS in Stanford-le-Hope have responded in numbers to an appeal to help fund the town's Christmas lights – however, there is still a way to go!

In three months, on Sunday, 10 December the town's Carols on the Green and Christmas Lights switch on is planned.

An organising committee including members of the town's Blooming Marvels gardening team, Rev Tom Rout and councillors is hoping to raise the annual cost of erecting, maintaining and storing the lights - £3,000 with a direct appeal to the local community.

Launched today (Sunday, 10 September), it has already raised more than £600 and there have commitments to hold fundraising events – including the head of Hassenbrook Academy, Sally Feeney, pledging that she will get students involved in a fundraiser.

All donations to the cause are being taken by the Blooming Marvels, best known for the flower boxes round the town.

Marvels stalwart Lin Swords said: "We need the funding secured by the end of October and would really appreciate everyone chipping in a quid.

"Weekly updates will be given to let you know how much we've raised, and how much is still left to raise.

"Once we hit £3000, we'll let you know, but the fund will stay open, so that any extra can go towards lights for next year.

If you can give £1 (or more!) please pay into Stanford Blooming Marvels, Sort code 30-90-89, Acc no. 52912468.

"If we all give something, then we can all enjoy some Christmas magic round the town. Thank you."