DOVERCOURT’S popular Christmas light switch-on has been saved thanks to funding from Harwich Town Council.

The annual festive lights switch-on event was on the verge of cancellation after a lack of available funding and support caused organisers to withdraw.

Money had previously come from Harwich and Dovercourt Partnership, which took over the display in 2009.

But the partnership has said its funding and organisation of the lights was only ever a temporary measure.

Kirsti Ayling and Tiffany Margetson stepped in, appealing to business owners, the council and residents to stump up the £3,000 needed to ensure the switch-on takes place.

Around £500 was raised by generous residents and traders, with Harwich Town Council stepping in at the 11th hour to contribute the final £2,500.

The lights will be switched on at 6.15pm, on December 2, during a special Christmas Cracker celebration.

The event will take place along Dovercourt High Street and in Kingsway Hall from 5pm to 7pm, with shops opening late, a Santa’s grotto and live entertainment.

Kirsti said: “It is now beginning to look a lot like Christmas and I just want to say thanks to everyone for pulling together for this.

“This event is going to be amazing. We just need everyone to spread the word and come along and enjoy the evening.

“Special thanks go to Harwich Town Council for contributing the the final funds needed to make this switch on possible.

“All proceeds from the campaign will be put back into the fund for the Christmas switch on next year.”

Last year Harwich Town Council also spent £16,000 on additional lights and it spends £3,500 on insurance and maintenance costs annually.

Councillor Ivan Henderson said: “We are really pleased to help and support the organisers who have now put together an absolutely fantastic event for the residents of Harwich.”