CORRINGHAM’s Christmas lights are twinkling thanks to the efforts of local businesses.

The town centre lights were in jeopardy after the community forum announced in October it could no longer organise them or the town’s annual winter fayre.

After the announcement, Corringham Events Committee, spearheaded by Liam Judd, stepped up to the mark and vowed to try to raise enough cash to bring festive cheer to the town centre sky.

A host of traders in the town centre made contributions towards the lights, which cost in the region of £3,000, and there was a big donation from Thames Oil Port, as well as contributions from the Corringham Forum and J Murphy and Sons, which is carrying out A13 improvement works in Stanford-le-Hope.

The town’s Christmas tree was donated by Corringham businessman Ross Cooper.

The lights were switched on on Friday night by Ross, Corringham town councillor Phil Anderson and rising local athletics star Hayley McLean.

The crowds were treated to pizza and hot drinks, as well as the singing talents of Thurrock Young Musician of the Year Georgia Robertson and her duet partner Louis Sorell-Wilde.

Liam has thanked everyone who made the night such a success, particularly Thames Oil Port, which has taken over the Coryton Oil Refinery.

He said: “A very big thank you for the kind donation made by Thames Oil Port.

“It was very much appreciated and we hope to work with them on further community projects in the future.”

Corringham Events Committee wants to reintroduce the town’s winter fayre next Christmas, but needs help from the community to do so.

If you can help, call Liam on 07530 756911.