RESIDENTS and businesses in Stanford-le-Hope have rallied to the cause and raised more than £3,000 to ensure the town's Christmas lights will once again be installed and switiched on this year.

Lin Swords, a spokesperson for the colunteer committee that organises the lights, said: "A massive thank you to all the businesses, groups, schools and individuals who kindly donated to our Christmas lights.

"We have hit the target of £3000 and a bit left over to kick start us for next year

"The lights will be up by 1 December and we will be hosting a Christmas tree light switch on and carol service on the Green on Sunday, 10 december at approximately 4pm. More information will follow on that shortly but once again thank you all very much for your support."