A BRIGHTER Christmas is in store for Colne Valley villages.

They are celebrating after a £1,000 donation towards their festive lights.

The Colne Valley Society has donated £250 each to the cost of the lights in Marsden, Slaithwaite, Golcar and Linthwaite.

Glenda Oldroyd, the society's chairman, said the cash was in line with their policy of helping worthy community causes.

She said: "We applaud the efforts that are being made in the valley to light up village shopping centres during the Christmas period.

"Donations of £250 each are going to Marsden and Slaithwaite community associations and Golcar Winkle Club, who organise their village lights.

"We hope Linthwaite villagers will take advantage of a similar amount which is available to them.

"The money is coming from a community chest built up by the society over a period of years from sales of publications and videos."

Andrew Booth, of Golcar Winkle Club, said: "The money is very welcome and we thank the society for its generosity."

Janet Jobber, of Slaithwaite Community Association said the cash would enable it to stage a better display of lights.