THE new group charged with organising PetersfieldÕs Christmas lights has appealed to the town for help.

The Associates of Petersfield Enterprises (APE) got the go-ahead to market the town this week, including organising the Christmas displays, and now desperately needs volunteers to lend a hand.

The group has just eight weeks to test, repair and erect the displays before the big switch-on in November.

But the man heading the group, Sal Cardu, is confident they can make it a success.

He said: ÒThe lights are in a bad situation. What we are going to do is get a team effort together. We are going to try to test all the lights and repair them in one day but we need a team of volunteers to help.Ó

Mr Cardu added: ÒWe need to see what we can use, what we can salvage and what needs throwing away. Then we will know how much money is needed for new lights. The Square will definitely need new displays because it has changed. It is going to be hard work but it is a good challenge.Ó

APE is planning a number of events to coincide with the November 28 switch-on.

ÒWe need something very family-orientated for the Square. We are looking at having choirs, a hog roast, entertainment for the kids and possibly a skating rink,Ó said Mr Cardu.

But he added the group would need volunteers to help it staff and steward the event.

The group took over the marketing of the town this week and received the backing of both the town and district councils.

District councillor Guy Stacpoole said: ÒPetersfield is a wonderful town with a lot to offer shoppers and visitors. APE is an entirely new team, working in close cooperation with both town and district Councils. It will help to market the town and bring in new business.Ó

APE has now launched a membership drive aimed at getting financial backing from the townÕs businesses through a benefits package.

Mr Cardu said: ÒThe more businesses join the more benefits we will be able to offer and the more backing we will receive from our local councils.

ÒOur aim is to sustain and develop the wellbeing of Petersfield by encouraging businesses and community organisations to work together in partnership.

ÒThere is much that can be achieved and an important opportunity to take responsibility and become part of the decision-making process of the town.Ó

Anyone wishing to help with the Christmas displays should contact Sal Cardu on 07801 939783.