A town's fight to raise £6,000 for its Christmas lights stepped up a gear with the launch of a crowdfunding page.

Sheppey residents can now donate to the Justgiving website to help raise cash to light up Sheerness.

The page was set up by Phil Crowder of the Sheerness Town Team.

The Team is also applying for grants to help with updating the display and having it installed.

There are 17 collecting tins across the Island at shops, offices and pubs including the offices of the Sheerness Times Guardian at 44 High Street, Sheerness.

The switch-on ceremony on Saturday December 2 will include a road closure for a Christmas market, stalls and attractions, the annual Lantern Parade and the Rotary Club's Santa Christmas Conga around the clock tower.

Jenny Hurkett, president of the Minster-on-Sheppey Rotary Club said: "It will be Sheppey's third Santa's stroll and conga through the High Street. It is getting bigger every year. We are hoping even more people will join us. The £10 entry fee includes a free Santa suit. We will alos be providing elf suits this year for children."

All the proceeds go to worthy causes.

To book a stall call Town Team member Ria Crawford on 07538 944233 or email r.crawford@ccg-sales.co.uk. To join the Santa run call Jenny on 01795 662981 or email bthc@btconnect.com

You can donate to the lights appeal here.