DAME Judi Dench has backed a Christmas lights campaign for Acomb.

In a message to Acomb Alive Traders’ Association, the York-born Oscar winner said: “I am delighted to know that the community spirit is alive and well in Acomb, and I wish you great success with your Christmas lighting campaign.”

Acomb Alive Chairman Cllr Sue Hunter said they were thrilled with Dame Judi’s kind words, and added: “We are as proud of her as she is of our community spirit!”

The campaign needs to raise £6,500 to go ahead and local businesses are being urged to “adopt” a tree or a lamppost.