Fund plan to make Guiseley Christmas lights even better (From Wharfedale Observer)

Fund plan to make Guiseley Christmas lights even better

10:00am Saturday 5th January 2013 in Local news

Councillors are looking to set up a dedicated “treasure chest” to which businesses and organisations could donate to further improve Guiseley’s Christmas lights next year.

Added sparkle was put into the town’s illuminations after councillors provided funding for extra decorations.

The £1,050 from the North West Outer Area Committee’s wellbeing fund helped to pay for six new motifs along the A65, in addition to the existing lights. The three Guiseley and Rawdon ward councillors say the lights play a part in helping traders during the festive season, as well as making the area look attractive.

Councillor Paul Wadsworth, who is also chairman of the area committee, said: “I’m pleased that we could find additional funding to really put some sparkle into Guiseley’s Christmas decorations this year. The aim is to really provide a boost to local businesses by making the area look attractive for shoppers.

“In future years I would like to see us have a dedicated pot of funding for the Christmas decorations, one that local businesses could also make contributions to, in order for us to get the kind of decorations that Guiseley deserves.”

Councillor Graham Latty added: “In these difficult economic times I think it is important to fund Christmas lights, as they brighten up the area, remind people that it is the season of goodwill and hopefully make people feel a bit better.”

Councillor Pat Latty said: “It was fantastic that this funding provided more lights and some motifs around the area.

“I wish we had the money available to do more but we have to do our best with what there is. I think it is really important that our area is brightened up as much as possible and look forward to seeing the decorations brighten up Guiseley to raise everybody’s spirits, particularly the young families who can find the season a little difficult.”