THE manager of a borough community hall has taken to social media after being asked to take down Christmas decorations in order to secure a fundraising booking.

Gary Byrne, who is also an independent borough councillor, says he has had a request to book Homsteads Hall on Dunstable Road, Stanford-le-Hope, for a pre-Christmas function.

But he will only get the booking - which brings in much-needed revenue for the community facility if he removes all the festive decorations - which he says took him hours to put up.

"It's much-needed money if we book it," but says he is minded to refuse the request, which he says was made on religious grounds.

"We do it for the kids who believe in Santa and the joy of Christmas. For me its all about the kids but what would you do?" he says.

For the record - the majority or people who have responded say don't take the booking - or charge them extra.

While the local community and Cllr Byrne ponder the decision, one date at the Hall when the decorations will prove really popular is the Homesteads Hall Fete on Saturday, 14 December.

This is the third year for the fete, which will run from 1.30pm to 5pm.

Thirty local traders and charities will have lots of unique Christmas gifts and provide children's activities.

Refreshments include a licensed bar, popcorn, candyfloss, cakes and sweets - while Princess Ariel will be spending the afternoon at the event.