HARD work has paid off for traders who have raised £11,000 to light up Horley this Christmas.
The Horley Association of Traders (HATs) raised half the cash through collection tins, a Christmas raffle and a Hallowe'en party. Their efforts were rewarded when Raven Housing Trust agreed to match whatever they made.
The new lights – now adorning lamp posts across the town centre – are just the beginning.
HATs chairman Andy Parr is aiming to continue fundraising throughout next year to ensure Horley sparkles even more next Christmas.
"We have been given an early Christmas present thanks to the extraordinary generosity from Raven Housing Trust and the people of Horley," he said.
"We are still asking businesses in the local area to sponsor our lights for this year and in the future."
New lights were needed after the previous set were ruined by being left on a roof.
They will be switched on at the inaugural HATs Christmas Fayre in the High Street on December 8, which will also feature an ice rink and Santa's grotto.
Sue Young, Raven's south neighbourhood manager, said: "We are delighted that our Community Investment Committee, which is led by Raven residents, chose to support this event.
" I'm sure the day will prove to be a great success and enjoyed by everyone in Horley, whether young or old."
The fayre begins at noon and the lights go on at 7pm.