AN appeal is being made to help raise £10,000 to boost this year's Thirsk's Christmas lights display.

Thirsk and District Business Association's ladies group collects about £5,000 a year to pay for the lights.

Their efforts were boosted last year by £500 from Thirsk Town Council.

Jill Miller, of the ladies section, said: "We run a number of events during the year to fund the Christmas lights. We rely on support from visitors and local people alike, as everyone enjoys seeing the town so brightly lit in the festive season.

"Last year, we managed to raise £6,000 after a lot of hard work by many dedicated ladies.

"This year we are aiming for £10,000 so that we can fit a light across Castlegate as well as repair some of the wiring.

"Thus we need the help of everyone so we can light up the town for Christmas."

Collection tins will be left in businesses for people to donate towards the Christmas lights.

Any business willing to put out a collection box is asked to call Jill Miller on 01845-522333.