WE haven’t got to Easter yet, but people in Taunton are already getting ready for a “fantastic Christmas” this year.

There will be more festive lights in the county town covering a larger area after Taunton Deane Council agreed to put aside £25,000.

Fundraising events are also being held throughout the year to ensure a Taunton is lit up in style and to avoid a last-minute panic to get the lights up.

As well as paying for lights, the council money will help replace ageing infrastructure and pay for more wiring.

Kelly Durdan, who has raised funds from businesses, individuals and groups to cover the costs of the lights and a grand switch on in recent years, welcomed the Deane’s donation.

“Councillors voted unanimously to fund the lights, which is great news,” said Ms Durdan, of Make Taunton Sparkle.

“We need to sort out the infrastructure first and then we can get some great lights and attract thousands of shoppers into Taunton over the festive period.

“This is a really good start towards having a fantastic Christmas and we’re organising lots of events through the year to raise even more money.”

The first event is a dragon Easter egg hunt in Hamilton Park on Easter Sunday, April 5, when proceeds will be shared with the Mayor’s Charity.

Anyone wishing to have a stall should e-mail kellydurdan@aol.com or call 07789-871856.

Cllr Mark Edwards, deputy leader of the ruling Conservatives at Deane House, said: “We are delighted to be able to provide certainty about the Christmas lights display this year.

“We are also grateful for the efforts made by those who worked so hard to make Taunton sparkle last Christmas.”

Opposition leader Cllr Simon Coles (LibDem) said: “Every year, there has been uncertainty over whether sufficient funding can be secured to deliver Christmas lights in the county town.

“The festive season is the biggest single opportunity for high street traders and this funding will ensure shoppers continue to spend their money in Taunton for years to come.”