Cash is needed to buy new and more energy efficient lights for a town's festive display.

Sandwich Christmas Lights Committee has put out the early plea for help from those who turn out each year to enjoy the Christmas Lights switch-on event.

Dean Marie, chairman of the group, said "Our lighting system is starting to show its age and failing and we now have our very popular Christmas lights tunnel at St Peter's Church which has been in place for four years. This also needs some attention.

"We have a five year plan in place to upgrade the lighting with new lighter and more energy efficient cabling and bulbs but we need more funding."

The requirements for 2021 is £10,000 to replace the lights in Market Street where the switch-on event will be held on Saturday, December 4 as the Guildhall Forecourt will be closed because of its new redevelopment.

In 2022 the lights committee will be continuing the upgrade and new lights will be purchased for the Guildhall forecourt to show off the new square.

Mr Marie added: "I know its early to be asking in may but if we gain the funds we need the committee will be commencing work from early as September."

A GoFundMe page has been set up to collect donations online and £50 has been pledged so far. It can be found by searching Sandwich Community Christmas Lights Upgrades or click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Sandwich