Last updated at 10:56, Wednesday, 24 December 2008

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MIDWAY through November the first lights started to flicker in neighbourhoods across south and west Cumbria.
More than ever it seems residents need this Christmas to escape the gloom of the impending recession.
And the festive displays, which become increasingly impressive each year, certainly brighten our communities.
You’ve got to admire the effort people have made to illuminate the skyline.
Residents have been adorning their homes and gardens with colourful lights, inflatable Santas and outdoor Christmas figures to spread festive cheer.
Barrow town centre is bright and green this Christmas.
Barrow Borough Council has enlisted the help of local companies P&L Lighting and Lumiere to replace its energy-guzzling light bulbs with LED lights.
The real trees were grown in Grizedale Forest and will be composted once twelfth night has passed.
Barrow town centre and festivals manager Ann Taylforth said: “Barrow town centre looks really cheery.
“There have also been a lot of wonderful decorations done by businesses and the market traders have decorated the market beautifully.
“They’ve done a wonderful job.
“Some of the pubs have been brilliant, particularly Yates’ in the town centre which has put up masses of decorations.
“Hotels, such as Chequers and the Gables Hotel, have got into the festive spirit.
“In Dalton, people who live on the main street have done masses to bring festive cheer to the town in addition to what Dalton and Barrow town councils have provided.”
The town centre trees have been sponsored by Furness Building Society, Alfred McAlpine and Hanson.
Mrs Taylforth said: “We are very grateful to all these companies for their sponsorship. Plaques will be displayed thanking each company for their contribution.”
A special Barrow Crest has been awarded to Jim Myerscough of J S Cards in the indoor market who, for the past 10 years since the council has run the market, has made an exceptional effort in decorating his stall at Christmas.

First published at 08:52, Monday, 15 December 2008
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk