TRANSPORT group First has called upon other York traders to join it in supporting the drive to illuminate the city this Christmas.

The company has announced a pledge of £1,500 to the York Business Pride Christmas Lights Appeal, bringing the total figure to £17,000.

But £13,000 is still needed if the appeal is to meet its £30,000 target in time.

This year's money is needed within weeks to give organisers time to make arrangements to get the lights installed for the shopping run-up to Christmas.

First's appeal to York businesses to support the fund echoes remarks by Cat Gallery owner Peter Hanson, who recently told the Evening Press it would be "commercial suicide" not to help give York a dazzling festive display.

First's contribution to the appeal follows donations of £5,000 each from GNER, York Business Pride and City of York Council, plus £220 raised through a fundraising day in St Sampson's Square on September 25.

Peter Edwards, commercial director for First, said: "We are donating this money because we consider ourselves to be part of the community of York and the thing is that the Christmas lights are certainly an important addition to the festive street scene in York.

"But I really feel that other local businesses who benefit from the economic viability of the city could follow our lead and put some money in."

Mr Edwards said he hoped the appeal would reach its £30,000 target in time.

He said: "It is extremely competitive out there when it comes to Christmas shopping, what with all the purpose-built shopping centres like Meadowhall near Sheffield and the White Rose centre in Leeds. But I think York offers rather more than just shopping. With cultural attractions and good food and drink there are lots more things to do in York than just shop."

Adam Sinclair, chairman of York Business Pride, said he was delighted to hear of First's donation to the lights appeal.

"This is fantastic news and it brings us that bit closer to our target. It's edging up there now and, with any luck, we will reach the £30,000 mark in time," he said.

The Evening Press is backing the Christmas lights appeal with its Make York Sparkle campaign.

Updated: 10:30 Tuesday, October 05, 2004