A YORK business chief has urged traders to rally round and ensure the city really sparkles this Christmas.

Len Cruddas, chief executive of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said the city could fall behind the competition if its festive lights were not up to their usual high standard.

He said: "The Christmas lights are important in many ways, not just how the city looks. But if we put on a poor show, we risk falling behind other places and losing trade. We will be spreading the message to businesses to back the campaign."

His comments came after York Business Pride launched Make York Sparkle - an urgent £15,000 Christmas lights appeal.

It is asking businesses to dig deep to help make sure city centre streets shine this Christmas. The city's Christmas Lights Committee has worked hard to raise money, but despite their efforts more cash is needed.

The lights will come on from November 18, but because of financial constraints a big switch-on show is not planned.

Colliergate traders have already raised £1,000 to support the campaign.

City of York Council has contributed £12,000, with Nestl making a donation of £30,000, towards a target of £57,000.

Anyone wanting to make a donation can contact Elenid Davies, at City of York Council, on 554532, or send cheques made payable to City of York Council c/o Elenid Davies, 20, George Hudson Street, York YO1 6WR.

Sarah Driscoll asked residents what they thought of York's Christmas lights

David Farr, 70, from Wigginton, York, said: "I think the illuminations are a good thing for the locals, they are fun. It's something we can look forward to on dark winter nights."

Jack Harland, 80, from Fulford, said: "Our Christmas lights are really bad. The council is so half-hearted about the whole thing. They should do more to brighten the place up!"

Joyce Park, 76, from Walmgate, said: "The York lights are terrible for tourists and residents. At that time of year you need cheering up with Christmas music and good lights."

Updated: 09:57 Monday, October 17, 2005