TRADERS in a Rossendale town today called on the council to switch on their festive lights after two years in the dark.

The plea to Rossendale Council came from businesses in Stacksteads who said the town had the largest Christmas tree in the Valley -- but it remained in the dark because the authority would not turn on the lights.

They claim flicking the switch on the 70ft tree would give the town a more festive feel and entice shoppers to the area.

Christine Lamb, who owns Something Fishy in Newchurch Road, said: "The tree looks absolutely beautiful when the lights are on and the comments are never ending about how good it looks.

"We are hoping that this year the council will be kind enough to give permission for the lights to be switched on, which will help brighten up the place and also attract shoppers into the area.

"People don't want to come into a glum-looking town. They want to visit a bright and buzzing place."

Sharon Mitchell, owner of The Hair and Beauty Clinic, Newchurch Road, Stacksteads, said: "I have been here for about 18 months and would love to see the lights on the Christmas tree.

"I think it would help to brighten up the place and encourage people passing through to stop and have a look around."

Stacksteads councillor Michael McShea said the last time Rossendale Council switched on the lights was in 2000 to celebrate the Millennium.

He said: "I know the Millennium was a special occasion but in my opinion every Christmas is special, especially for the youngsters.

"When the tree was lit the whole place glowed as well. I know it won't cost the council that much to have the lights on for a couple of weeks so I would urge them to seriously consider doing so".

Coun Nick Pilling, chairman of Rossendale Council Highways Committee said: "I don't know why they haven't been switched on for the past couple of years but will look to see what can be done.

"I will look at the policies of lighting up Christmas trees in Stacksteads and other parts of the borough to see if it is feasible."