SHOPKEEPERS in Bishop Auckland have been branded as Scrooges by their traders' organisation after turning down an offer of cut-price Christmas lights.

After bearing the brunt of shoppers' anger when last year's dismal festive display in Bishop Auckland was described as pathetic, the town's chamber of trade was determined to make a special effort this year.

It invited all of its members to brighten up their stores with a £95 plus Vat deal for a bracket, tree and lights.

But, even though the first 30 buyers will get a 50 per cent discount, only six have come forward.

Chamber of trade chairman Margaret Ellis has set businesses a deadline for next Monday to apply for a tree.

She hopes that a Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) grant of £5,000 will be released in time to give members and non-members a half-price display.

Mrs Ellis said: "If we can make the town look more attractive for Christmas, more people will come here and shop. It will look dismal without any decorations. We have a very low budget, but we were prepared to go 50-50 to encourage people. If we get the SRB funding through in time we can extend it to all retailers in the town.

"After the initial cost, the price will go down to £35 next year, because they will have the bracket and the lights."

She said traders were slow to buy tickets for a dance arranged for November 29 to help pay for the town's lights, including small displays in Newgate Street and Bondgate.

The chamber of trade needs to raise £1,000 to qualify for matched funding from Wear Valley District Council.

Mrs Ellis said: "They are the first to complain when things don't happen, but when we ask for their support they don't come forward. We are not asking for a lot of money - it is really just petty cash. If everybody took part it would have a big impact of businesses."

Any business wanting a tree should contact JC Ellis, in Newgate Street, telephone (01388) 600100.