A CAMPAIGN to add sparkle to a village this Christmas has received a boost.

A festive-themed race night raised just over £700.

The event was part of efforts to coin in the £4,000-or-so needed to once again display Christmas lights across Oakworth this year.

There were six races, each featuring seasonal figures – including Santa and Rudolph. They were moved as 'horses' around a specially-made track, and people were able to place bets.

A supper was provided.

The extravaganza – at the village hall – was organised by the Oakworth Christmas Lights Group, with the race element being run by Keighley Lions Club.

Race nights are staged regularly by the Lions for good causes including Scout groups, schools and charitable organisations.

Mags Dearden – chair of Oakworth Christmas Lights Group – described the event as "an amazing night", and she paid tribute to all those who gave their support.

She says: "We would like to express a massive 'thank you' to all who attended; our many race sponsors, and the Lions, who enabled the event to happen, and the village hall team which gave us free use of the premises for the evening. It truly was an amazing night."

Luke Maunsell, for Keighley Lions Club, says: "We are so happy that a great total was raised for the Christmas lights cause.

"All our Lions had a fun time, and we can't wait to see the lights shine once again in the beautiful village of Oakworth."

Other fundraising events staged this year as part of the annual Christmas lights campaign have included a quiz night, held at the Snooty Fox.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the lights fund can donate at paypal.com/paypalme/makingoakworthgreat

More details about holding a race night through Keighley Lions can be obtained by emailing info@keighleylions.org.uk

This year's Oakworth Christmas lights switch-on is scheduled to take place at 5pm on Saturday, December 7.

It will be preceded that afternoon, from 2.30pm, by Oakworth Village Society's annual Christmas fair.

Attractions at the event – in the village hall – will include stalls, games and a range of family activities.

Oakworth Gala Queen Annie Hardman will judge a drawing competition.

And refreshments will be available upstairs in a Christmas cafe.

Janet Armstrong, for the village society, says: "There promises to be a relaxed atmosphere for everyone to mingle, pick up a Christmas gift or two and maybe even win a prize."