TO AVOID disappointment in Surbiton and Tolworth this year, residents are appealing to the council to help them fund their Christmas lights.

Kingston council have revealed that due to the current economic climate they are unable to sponsor either of the towns with festive lights this Christmas.

Both New Malden and Kingston have had their lights donated by local businesses but traders in Surbiton and Tolworth have this year not come forward.

Residents are now hoping that the council will be able to find funds so that neither of the towns will miss out on the festive spirit.

Chairman of Surbiton Central Area Residents' Association (SCARA), Dennis De Lord, said: "I fully appreciate that people need to tighten their belts at the moment, but it would be regrettable if the council couldn't find some of the money for some lights, otherwise it's going to look as if Surbiton has cancelled Christmas.

"I would think that the council would have some money for a few lights."

Surbiton resident, Rachel Yexley, 25, said: "Everyone is feeling the pinch at the moment, so I can understand why they wouldn't be able to afford it.

"But the town is going to look so depressing without lights. I think a bit of Christmas cheer would do everyone a bit of good."

The council have said that they would be keen to speak to businesses and organisations about funding for the lights.

A spokesman for the council, said: "The council has made the difficult decision that the Christmas lights in Surbiton and Tolworth town centres will be scaled back this year.

"The council is operating in an extremely challenging financial climate and difficult decisions like these had to be made if we are to continue to deliver the vital statutory services on which our residents rely most.

"The council is keen to engage with businesses, or anyone from the local community, to consider alternative funding or other options for Christmas lights and decorations.

"Waitrose have very kindly agreed to sponsor the tree and lights on the roundabout in Surbiton and the council is hopeful that other local businesses may also contribute to the festivities."

Anyone interesting in sponsoring lights in either Tolworth or Surbiton should contact neighbourhood manager Christina Gardner on 020 8547 5369.