WHEN it comes to Christmas decorations there is no doubt about it – Guiseley is very much a poor cousin to Ilkley.

While Ilkley has the air of a tasteful winter wonderland, Guiseley’s festive display is less than impressive.

But for all those who have roundly criticised the display over the past couple of years it is worth pointing out they are lucky to have any display at all.

With the Government’s austerity programme affecting the amount of money it gives to local authorities, cuts are having to be made in all sorts of areas. And it is against this background that Leeds City Council decided several years ago that it could not afford to fund festive displays in the outlying areas.

Since then, local ward councillors have ensured the town has some seasonal decorations at least by using a small amount of funding which they have available for local projects.

It is good that people are coming together to bring a little more festive cheer to Guiseley and it is very sensible to seek advice from a town which has Christmas lights down to a fine art.

Now it is time for the community and local businesses to do their bit to help.