ILMINSTER’S showstopping Christmas Lights have received a fundraising boost thanks to the town’s golden-throated Rotarians.

Members of the Ilminster Rotary Club sang their way around various pubs in the town at the end of last year, collecting cash for their Christmas lights fund.

The group also featured representatives from the Serenade Choir, the Lions club, and other organisations in the town.

Brenda Lake, from Ilminster Rotary, said: “The Christmas lights give a lot of pleasure to so many people in the town and the surrounding area and our thanks go to all those that contributed and dug down deep into their pockets.

“Organised by Rotary, this was our third time of doing the event, and it could be even bigger and better.

“Watch out for future publicity in November.”

Clinton Bonner, chairman of the lights committee, said: “The Ilminster Christmas Lights are very well supported by local organisations and by private individuals who also provide by generous donations.

“Without them we couldn’t do what we do.

“We have 20 volunteers who give up their time, but it means all the money we get goes to the lights.

“In March we will have a meeting where we decided what we want to new this year.

“Last year we did East Street, and this year we are hoping to improve the roof on the market house, and more.

“Rotary are very good for us and this year’s donation was raised with carol singing.”

As well as private donations and bequests, Clinton said the town’s lights are particularly well supported by Rotary, the Lions Club, and Angie Blackwell at Cottage Flowers.

“The Christmas Lights switch on is certainly one of the highlights of the year,” Clinton added.