HELENSBURGH’S Christmas lights should be lit by the middle of next month, according to the hardy group of volunteer ‘elves’ who have started work on installing them this week.

Members of the Helensburgh Festive Lighting Charitable Trust, which has organised the town’s display for the past decade, began putting up the lights on West Clyde Street at the weekend and the group has appealed for donations to support their efforts as the pandemic continues to restrict fund-raising opportunities.

A spokesperson said: “The elves do not receive any council funding or assistance whatsoever, everything they do is self funded and all labour is voluntary.

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“The elves need funds to hire in equipment such as the cherry picker, to cover insurance, repairs and all protective equipment for each of the volunteers. So Santa is making a plea to Helensburgh folk, please donate to the elves, they need funds to complete the job and ensure they can install the Christmas tree once again in the square.”

To donate, visit the Terrace café in Colquhoun Square; pay direct to the bank account - Helensburgh Festive Lights at RBS (sort code: 832303, account number: 00624980); text ‘Xmas’ to 70490 to donate £5; or hand your donation to one of the orange elves when you see them climbing lampposts throughout the town.

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