The Warlingham Christmas Lights Committee is preparing a more eco-friendly display for Warlingham Green this year, ready for the switching-on ceremony on Saturday, 26th November.

There will be extra lights on at least one featured tree on The Green and energy saving light bulbs wil be used for all the lights.

The festivities on the 26th will begin at 4pm, building up to the children of local primary schools setting out on the traditional lantern parade around the centre of the village, led by the Warlingham Flute Band. The lights themselves will be switched on at 5pm, followed by carols from a combined children's choir.

There will be a Christmas market in the Village Hall and stalls in the Church Hall from 4pm, and from 5.15pm Santa will be in his grotto in the Church Hall. Throughout the event there will be children's rides and lots to eat and drink.

Many of the businesses around The Green will remain open late or be staging special events.

Volunteers will be raising money with collections, raffles and the sale of the new Warlingham Christmas Lights 2011 badges.

A very special raffle will be held on the afternoon before the switch on, with the winner winning the right to switch on the lights.

The organisers still need as many volunteers as they can get to be stewards, collectors and general helpers on the night, so if you would like to get involved, call Wendy on 01883 623025.

The lights are supported entirely by donations, fund raising, contributions from local businesses and a grant from the Parish Council.

Anyone with an interest in the lights is invited to the feedback meeting at 8pm on Thursday, 8th December at the Scout Hut, Mint Walk, Warlingham.

For more information go to www/warlinghamlights.org.