AN urgent appeal has gone out to businesses and the public for donations to save the New Year's Eve fireworks display at Looe.

To guarantee this year's display on the seafront at least another £1,000 must be collected by the end of November or else the attraction will not go ahead.

The fireworks' organisers for the last four years, Looe residents Michala and Gerry Powell, say it has been difficult getting any money in this year.

'We realise everyone is struggling but a donation of £10 would help – it would be better than nothing,' said Michala.

Cancellations

'Our concern is that nationwide interest in Looe as a New Year's Eve destination might not be as good if there were no fireworks to herald in the New Year.

'Guest houses, bed and breakfasts and hotels could face cancellations if there were no fireworks as stated in some advertising brochures.'

Michala said Barclay House Hotel and Restaurant had donated £100 and there were more pledges coming in, but they were still falling short.

'To put on the ultimate display we need about £3,500, but £1,500 would just about see us through,' she said. 'So far we have collected £475 but that is now growing as pledges start to trickle in.'

Because there have been calls from residents for the town council to put up the money, it has issued this statement: 'Looe Town Council contributes up to £400 towards the cost of the mammoth clean-up on New Year's Day and large wheelie bins for New Year's Eve.

'We recognise the importance of the firework display and the ongoing benefit to the town's economy and tourism but we have to balance the long-term benefits to Looe between the fireworks and services, such as the public conveniences, to give best value to our residents.'

There are collection points in Looe for the fireworks appeal or cheques to 'Looe Festival' can be given to the Tourist Information Centre.