THIS was the third year of the Oakworth Christmas lights switch on and it has gone from strength to strength.

Mags Dearden has been the main architect getting it up and running. I and others helped, as she couldn’t do it all.

Not only was there the switch on, but the setting in place of six trees above the shops, with the help of Martin Hoyle.

This year's switch-on was by local shepherdess Carol Mellin, runner-up on the BBC's One Man and his Dog.

Nigel Passey Jnr gave his time for free to sing Christmas carols and popular songs.

David Aspinall helped organise the road closure, with assistance from the Oakworth Scouts, who also sold hot dogs, tea and coffee, raising an amazing £236 towards next year's lights.

I want to thank the people of Oakworth for their support, long may it continue.

We have to raise about £3,000 a year to carry on. The lights are not funded by the council.

If anyone wants to sponsor a light, or design their own maybe in memory of a loved one or as a special Christmas present for next year, please get in touch. You can also set up a direct debit – any amount will be welcome.

For more information contact Mags Dearden or myself via Facebook (Oakworth Christmas Lights), or email irene_fowler@sky.com

Irene Fowler, Oakworth