VILLAGERS have launched a campaign to add some sparkle to their community this Christmas.

Steeton and Eastburn residents are raising money to provide trees and lights in the neighbouring villages following a "paltry" display last year.

But local parish council chairman David Mullen has hit back at criticisms of the 2013 seasonal showing, claiming there had been problems with the electricity supply to the two Christmas trees.

Instead lights were placed on a tree beside Steeton Hub, which he said would again be decorated.

"We were told by Bradford Council last year that we couldn't use the Eastburn Christmas tree because of an issue with the power and we have tried for a long time to identify an alternative site but without success," said Coun Mullen.

"There is also no power supply for the tree in Steeton, but a connection to the Hub was installed last year so we put on a display there instead, which is being repeated."

He added: "It would be expensive for the parish council to put up a lot of lights around the villages and of course ratepayers' money would have to fund it, plus there is a lot of work involved in putting them up and then taking them back down again.

"Other towns and villages with displays have special committees to deal with it."

More than 20 residents attended a public meeting, at St Stephen's Church hall in Steeton, called to discuss the issue.

Among those present was Mrs Janet Pickles, who lives in the village and owns a locally-based business, RA Medical Services Ltd.

"Last year we had no Christmas tree – just a pitiful few lights on a tree by the Hub – and the excuses offered were weak," she said.

"There has been an undercurrent of feeling about this among villagers, resulting in the meeting, and it was agreed that we should look further into what might be possible.

"Our goal this year is to have two Christmas trees and lights and then build upon that in the future.

"Of course this will cost money and we are getting a fund going."

Mrs Pickles is donating £100 from her company, and added that the Goat's Head pub had also pledged a donation.

Posters are going up around the villages and other business will be approached for support.

A second meeting to develop the campaign and discuss progress was being held this week.