Recession hits festive light fund

Last year, Horsham council spent more than £70,000 on Christmas lights

Fewer Christmas lights will be seen in part of West Sussex this year because of the recession, a council has said.

Last year, Horsham District Council spent more than £70,000 on lights in Horsham and several nearby villages.

This year, it will cut its spending by more than half to about £25,000, said council leader Robert Nye. Traders will also be asked to make a contribution.

Councillor Nye said it was because of the current economic climate, and also a reduction in the council's income.

He said: "We deeply regret the need to cut this budget, however we can no longer justify the higher budget .

"Raising additional funds through local business and public initiatives will need be on the agenda if Horsham and the market towns are to continue to provide Christmas lighting displays to be proud of."

This year, Horsham council has budgeted £14,450 for Horsham town centre, and £9,250 for parish councils, for Christmas 2009.

Last year, it spent £61,800 on Christmas lighting in Horsham town centre, and provided an additional £9,250 in grants to parish councils around the district.