CLACTON could be left in the gloom at Christmas unless residents dip into their pockets.

There will be no Christmas lights in the town centre without a big fundraising effort.

Clacton Town Partnership is coordinating fundraising for this year’s festive display.

The group needs to raise £5,500 for Christmas lights to be put up around the town centre and operated.

Spokesman for the Clacton Town Partnership Alan Kidd said: “We almost had no lights last year until a generous donation from a local businessman at the last minute made it possible.

“But this year we need the support of the whole community to make it happen.

“The members who have formed the Clacton Town Partnership all feel very passionately about Clacton and we want the town centre to be lit up over Christmas as it should be."

Of the £5,500 needed, £200 has been donated by the Jubilee Rotary Club and a local businessman has pledged £500.

The full amount has to be raised by November 30.

People will be able to donate by visiting the Natwest branch on Station Road, Clacton, calling 07725839898 or emailing clactontp@gmail.com.