COMMUNITY activists are making an early start to their Christmas lights fundraising campaign which kicks off with a night of musical entertainment.

People in Loftus are again joining forces to secure funds to build on the success of last year's Christmas Lights switch on.

They initially decided to act last year after feeling rather underwhelmed with previous light displays and brightened by residents' warm reaction, the organisers are hoping to make it even bigger and better for this year.

And to get the ball rolling, they are putting on a gig by legendary saxophonist Snake Davis in the town hall which will double up as a fundraiser.

Jill Christie, one of the organisers, said: "Last year we were really nervous about what the public's reaction would be to the Christmas Lights switch-on but seeing the joy on people's faces and hearing all the kind words after the event made it all worthwhile.

"People have already been coming forward asking what we are planning for this year's event and that is great news. We are hoping to make it bigger and better."

As well as decorations, lights and tree, the committee was also able to organise a visit from Father Christmas and managed to arrange for children's rides and food stalls to take over part of the Hight Street.

Louise Allanson, another member of the organising committee, said the gig is going to be the first major event to help raise money for the switch-on but plans were starting to take shape for events throughout the year.

She said: "We have already had great support from within the community with the Co-op raising money for the lights, as well as the other local businesses organising events for us – the support we have had has been overwhelming.

"Last year's event was such a success that we are going to be working hard to make it even better this year – hopefully this gig will help us to start to raise even more money for the switch-on.

"Last year, there was an amazing atmosphere in the town and we are hoping build on it year-on-year."

Snake Davis' Burden of Paradise gig takes place at Loftus Town Hall on Wednesday, May 2. Tickets, costing £8, are available from Wolds Pottery, on the High Street or by calling 01287-640100.

The Loftus Christmas Light switch-on event is scheduled to take place on Friday, November 23.