Holsworthy's Christ­­mas lights went up on Saturday ready to be switched on for this Saturday's Carnival Day. At one point in the past weeks, however, it seemed as if the town would be deprived of its festive lights this year.

Out of the blue the Chamber of Trade was faced with a bill for £5,393.25, including VAT, when a check on the light fixtures showed they were in a bad, possibly dangerous condition and needed replacing. Having taken over responsibility for the lights from the Holsworthy Town Council since last Christmas, the Chamber of Trade had been fundraising throughout the year so was able to pay £1,800 plus VAT towards the cost. There still remained, however, a shortfall of over £3,000, so they appealed for help.

As the bill was considerably higher than expected, the firm given the task of fitting new fixtures reduced the bill by £1,000 to £4,393.25. A donation was received from the Old Market Inn charity fund and staff of PCPlanIT serviced the lights themselves free of charge. County and district councillor Des Shadrick and district councillor Richard Brown have also been very supportive and are hoping for funds from Devon County and Torridge District Councils.

At a meeting of Holsworthy Town Council on Wednesday, November 5, the Town Clerk, Clare Dalley read a letter from the chairman of the Chamber of Trade, Beccy Johns, asking if the town council could help with paying the deficit.

Mrs Dalley recommended that the town council give the Chamber of Trade an interest free loan for 12 months so that they are able to pay the bill. She added: "The council can always review how much you would be willing to donate later."

Cllr Richard Brown commented: "I feel the council can't be seen to be Ebenezer Scrooge at Christmas." He proposed that the council adopted the town clerk's suggestions and offer the Chamber of Trade an interest free loan.

Councillors voted in favour of the recommendation.

At the meeting Cllr Pam Johns, who is also secretary of the Chamber of Trade, thanked the council on behalf of the chamber.

Beccy Johns said: "Holsworthy will have its Christmas lights this year. While I am grateful to the Town Council for the loan, I am disappointed that they did not feel able to make at least a small donation. Businesses in the town are struggling in the current extremely difficult economic climate and need all the support they can get."

Meanwhile the Chamber of Trade's fundraising for the lights is continuing this week with a window dressing and 'Spot The Deliberate Mistake' competition. Entry forms cost 50p and can be obtained from Southbourne Catering and Moores Furnishings. The first prize is a gift voucher for £10.

On Sunday, November 23 a fundraising luncheon will be held in the Memorial Hall. Mrs Johns is hoping both efforts will be well supported.