More than 100 people have signed up to help fund Rishton’s Christmas lights this year.

The group, called ‘Switch On Rishton’, aims to raise around £2,300 for trees and lights above shops and premises around the village.

It comes after the Observer revealed earlier this year how council bosses approved plans to reduce the Christmas lights and decorations budget by 75 per cent from an ‘unsustainable’ £60,000 to £15,000.

Switch On Rishton has been officially constituted with an elected committee and Post Office account and more than 100 people have joined the group on Facebook.

Nick Haywood, a representative of the group, said: “Over the last two years residents of Rishton have missed out on of having the High Street looking festive at Christmas time because of Hyndburn Council having no money for the trees and lights.

“Rishton used to have trees above the shops and premises and a large tree outside the library and along with the crib this made the town look very festive.

“After being told that there was no money available any more, a few residents decided to form a group in the hope that funds could be raised to not only to purchase the trees, but also to continue to fundraise for the rest of the year. The aim is to put Rishton back on the map.”

Nick said the group has approached a number of businesses and are looking for help to raise funds, donations and raffle prizes.

Collection tubs have also been ordered and will be placed on shop counters to help them reach their £2,300 target.

Nick said: “We have had a few meetings with the group and residents and business owners are more than welcome to attend.

“We have had a number of ideas for fundraising.”

The first Switch On Rishton fundraising event has been organised at Rishton Conservative Club on August 1 and will include live music dancing and a pie and peas supper. Tickets at £5 are available from Jacqui Achaski by calling 07811 643376.

The group will also have a stall at the Rishton Carnival and for more information visit their Facebook page.