THE Chamber of Trade have issued an appeal to raise £8,000 for the Christmas illuminations in Galashiels.

Last year new lights were put up on Douglas Bridge and Market Street, but now there is a more serious issue with health and safety.

To meet regulations, the fixings which hang on Channel Street will all have to be replaced and annual maintenance has to be carried out on all of the lights.

Michelle Donaghy, the Chamber of Trade Secretary, issued the appeal and said: "You will probably agree that an impressive display would encourage local shoppers and visitors from outside the area to come into the town, thus creating potential customers for us all and an impressive ambience would hopefully give them the Christmas spirit glow and would encourage them to dig deep into their pockets.

"The total funds needed will be approximately £8,000, which as you can understand is a lot of money to find before Christmas. Without this we will not be able to have the lights on," she added.

"It is volunteers who are involved with looking after the lights and we are extremely lucky to have them and that we don't have any costs for this.

"We would appreciate any amount of donation, as little or as much as you can."

To make a donation, please send to Michelle at Tile Style (Borders) Ltd, 13 Bank Street, Galashiels, TD1 1EN, or call into the shop. (receipts will be sent/given).