FINANCIAL difficulties could mean the end of the road for Malton's Christmas lights, says the town's Chamber of Trade.

At present, there is a £2,000 shortfall between the money raised from local businesses and organisations and the total cost of the decorations, and the organisation says it cannot bridge the gap for another year.

In 2002, the total cost of the lights was £5,700, with £5,043 raised. Christmas lights co-ordinator Brian Pape said: "If there is a substantial deficit this year, then the future of the lights must be in doubt."

After much speculation, the illuminations were put up by local electrician Stuart Collins, of Coltrec Ltd, who stepped in at short notice after both Bob North, of Malton, and Tom Jones, of Norton, were forced to retire as co-ordinators due to health problems.

But, as the lights were taken down traditionally on 12th night, Monday January 5, their future once again hung in the balance.

Chairman of the Chamber of Trade Ian Beecham said: "I'm optimistic that people will see their value - not just the commercial value, but as a celebration of Christmas, which we have been doing for a lot of years. We were fortunate this year that we were able to get someone to put them up for us, but we still have bills to pay and bulbs to replace. We need to get the balance right and there is a lot of work to be done."

Malton and Norton town centre manager Peter Mudge said: "We are looking to work more closely with the town councils in Malton and Norton in preparation for next year's lights, and I'm sure they will continue, despite rising costs."

The Chamber of Trade would like to gratefully acknowledge donations received, since it last reported, from: Victoria Wine, Lions Club, TVC, Crombie and Wilson, Trio, County Classics, Sandra's, NFU Mutual, Beechams Pharmacy, Health Foods, Tate Smith Ltd, Hill and Jackson, Pearson and Ward, Stones Jewellers, Aladdins.

For those who would like to make a donation to the Christmas lights fund, you can send to Malton Christmas Lights, c/o Brian Pape, White Owls, West Knapton, Malton, YO17 8JB.

Updated: 10:51 Wednesday, January 07, 2004