SHOPPERS in Hale can look forward to some festive sparkle - thanks to businesses in the village.

A fundraising campaign to cover the cost of Christmas decorations has hit its £15,000 target.

This saw businesses being asked to sponsor a graphic bauble – at a cost of £1000 each.

The Hale Business Association (HBA) campaign, working with PR firm Marketing Profile, was launched on Valentine’s Day and the response has resulted in the full amount being raised.

Sponsors include, Blackstone Solicitors, Edwina Lilley Charitable Trust, Foresight Wealth Strategists, Sea-Saw, Côte, W Frank & Sons, 205 on Ashley, Cheshire Insurance Brokers, Pixie, Watersons, High Access, JTS Solicitors, iHomes, and Kellands.

Two years ago, the funding was withdrawn by Trafford Council and since that time HBA had struggled to raise the funds needed, meaning that in 2016 the lights were very limited.

Commenting on the fund-raising initiative for 2017 - Penny English, of HBA, said of the und-raising initiative for 2017: “It had been increasingly difficult to raise monies for the lights and therefore a fresh approach was needed.

"We were delighted with the proposal put forward by Marketing Profile – at no cost to us and they have worked closely with us to generate interest and support.

"We are so grateful to the businesses that have sponsored a graphic bauble and the other smaller businesses that have offered donations.

"We are currently working with Trafford Council on planning requirements for signage in the village over the festive period.

"In 2017 we really want the whole village to come together to ensure that ‘Hale shines’. "HBA is working hard with the lighting company to produce an impressive display. HBA member – GIFT & Home will be selling individual ‘Love Hale 2017’ red baubles at just £4.99 each in support of HBA – meaning that everybody can get involved and support the village.

"We will also be producing A4 posters that businesses can display. Our sincere thanks to everybody for their support.”