SHINE on! Poulton lights will be glittering brightly this Christmas despite worries there would be no one to foot the bill.

But last year's sponsors have generously agreed to fund the festive display again if no other source can be found before October 31.

Wyre Borough Council bosses had been hoping that a new sponsor would step in this year after Elletson Publishing, who publish documents for local authorities throughout the UK, decided to step down after four years' funding.

But when the town was threatened by a possible blackout over the yuletide period, the publishing company stepped back in to foot the bill, which could be as much as £31,000 including maintenance costs. "We had been hoping that another sponsor would come forward to support this popular annual spectacle for the town after our involvement over the past four years," said managing director Gary Dean.

"However the council have told me, sadly, that no one has come forward to date.

"I can give this guarantee -- the Christmas lights will shine in Poulton this year. If a new sponsor does not come forward we will step in for another year."

Councillor Harry Taylor said: "We are grateful to Elletson Publishing, not just for their ongoing support, but also for the money they have invested over the past four years bringing the Christmas lights up to date."

Last year saw the lights switch-on receive its biggest audience ever when the event was broadcast live on Radio One to nine million listeners as part of the Chris Moyles show.