A dazzling display of Christmas lights will continue to brighten the skies after a pub came to the rescue of one of the Island's most popular fundraisers.

Last month we reported how people had been saddened by the news that the switch-on and festive lights display in Foxley Road, Queenborough, had been cancelled in what would have been its 12th year.

Organisers Pat and John Down and Sharon and Phil Williams decided to call it a day due to the ever-increasing costs of power coupled with some residents' concerns about their own ability to continue as they get older.

But after reading our story, Rotarian and Aviator pub manager Phil Chislett thought it would be a shame if the tradition came to an end and came up with another solution.

Supported by the Rotary Club of Minster-on-Sea, this year there will be a display and fundraiser called the Queenborough Corner Lights at the Aviator.

Letters have been sent out to Foxley Road residents asking them to lend or donate any lights they will not be using to the pub to give them a head start.

Although Mr Chislett said he has no idea how it will go in its first year at a new home, the pub hopes to stage a switch-on and fundraising night like there was in Foxley Road.

He said: "We are in the process of getting it all going.

"If it didn't carry on that's about £2,000 less that local charities will receive, and in this day and age that would be a shame - people were going to lose out.

"We are a good central point and it's a good thing for Sheppey as you will see it when you come on to the Island."

Mrs Down said she and her fellow organisers are happy, adding: "It is hoped the whole of the Aviator and that area can be one blaze of light which will be absolutely fantastic and it will be nice to have something a bit different.

"We will give them any help we can."