THE annual Christmas lights appeal has been launched in Halesowen a bid to ensure the town sparkles during the festive season.

The Chamber of Trade needs to raise £5,000 towards the cost of the lights and is appealing for shops and other businesses to provide sponsorship.

They are being offered the chance to have their name in lights – on a banner attached to the garlands for £300.

Those who cannot afford a banner are being asked to donate either £100 or £50 to show their support.

Chamber chairman Wayne Edwards is writing to all businesses saying: “Please help Halesowen not to be the Scrooge this year – dig deep, give what you can and together we can make the town a place for people to come and enjoy the festive season and ultimately generate money for you.”

He added: “Join with us to spread a little festive cheer this Christmas and make Halesowen town a place of joy and celebration by supporting the Christmas lights.”

Mr Edwards said the appeal was “an unrivalled opportunity to promote your company’s brand to shoppers, businesses and visitors to the town.

“By sponsoring a banner you will benefit from exposure from mid-November all the way through to early January.”

The switch-on is planned for Saturday November 15 and Mr Edwards said more than 50,000 visitors were expected to flock to the town for the ceremony which will be heralded by an afternoon of entertainment.

Activities are also being planned in the run up to the switch-on to provide promotional opportunities for businesses.

Companies leading the way with early offers of sponsorship include Chapman’s Electrical, Horizon Engineering, Full Range Print Solutions and Bescot Promotions. Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club has also offered to contribute.

Cheques, made payable to Halesowen Chamber of Trade, can be sent to the appeal, c/o The Management Suite, Queensway Mall, Cornbow Shopping Centre.