THE Christmas lights in Ferryhill have one more year's use in them, say council officials.

The town's Christmas decorations, rated among the best in County Durham, are now more than ten years old.

An appeal to raise money for new lights was launched last year, but more money is needed to buy replacements.

Jamie Corrigan, executive officer at Ferryhill Town Council, said: "There is probably just one more Christmas left in these lights. We are still fundraising to get a full new set of Christmas lights for next year."

About £2,500 has been collected, and fundraising events are ongoing, including one at Ferryhill Comprehensive School, which is planning a concert in aid of the appeal.

Mr Corrigan said no target had been set for the appeal.

"We will spend as much as we raise on the Christmas lights, but I think we'd like between £10,000 and £15,000 to get something comparable to what we have got now," he said.

Anyone who would like to contribute to the Ferryhill Christmas lights appeal can contact the town hall on (01740) 652157