HARROGATE At Christmas, the group responsible for raising the money to fund the Christmas lights in the town, has now launched its fundraising appeal for 2012.

The group, which raised nearly £31,500 last year, is requesting pledges from local retailers, businesses and individuals in the Harrogate area.

Harrogate Borough Council provides £10,000, but this has to be match-funded by the business sector.

Soroptimist International of Harrogate and District is also organising the 2012 Christmas Shop Window Competition this year and Harrogate College is encouraging its design students to design and create a piece of civic sculpture, which will be displayed in the centre of the town.