TRADERS in Blackburn town centre have been told to dig deep if they want a Christmas spectacular in their shopping centre after money was withdrawn for this year's festivities.

Council bosses today revealed the European cash which had been used to fund previous Christmas promotional activities was no longer available and called on traders to help cover the cost of the events.

Blackburn's Chamber of Trade backed the call, saying it was in everyone's best interests to make sure this Christmas went with a bang.

Last year, traders celebrated a bumper Christmas after a string of high-profile events, including the Christmas lights switch-on by pop trio Atomic Kitten.

And a series of weekend events in with a Victorian Christmas theme also pulled shoppers in, with many traders reporting a record trade.

But for something similar this year businesses have been told they need to stump up some of their cash, which will be matched by contributions from the council.

While things like the Christmas lights will definitely be put up -- the council already owns them -- other activities will have to be sponsored to cover costs.

Coun Andy Kay, in charge of regeneration, said: "A schedule of activity is currently being put together with detailed costings and we are working with our partners investigating a number of sources of funding and sponsorship to achieve this.

"We hope to be able to publicise finalised details of the line up at the beginning of October."

"For the last three years, European funding through the now completed Town Centre Action Plan, along with generous support from partners like Standard Life, has enabled us to support traders with extensive promotions at Christmas time to attract shoppers.

"The council does not now have access to this level of additional external funding and He added: "Blackburn Town Centre Marketing Initiative have recognised the need to attract more private sector funding and involvement to meet everyone's aspirations for a level of promotional activity to equal previous years.

"At this stage, we are very hopeful that this can be achieved." Phil Ainsworth, who has a jewellers on Darwen Street, normally arranges a firework display in the grounds of Blackburn Cathedral which is part-funded by the council.

He said: "I am still waiting to see what funding I will get."

Ronnie O'Keeffe, president of Blackburn Chamber of Trade, said: "It is important that traders do find the money to make Christmas a good one.

"Everyone had a good year last year and we need to do something on the same scale this year if we are to compete with other towns."