FOLLOWING last year's dazzling success, Kendal is preparing to get festive again with a brand new Christmas lights appeal.

A Bid for Kendal, organised by the Kendal Partnership last year, saw townsfolk gather to bid for goods donated by local businesses.

The auction raised nearly £1,000 towards the cost of illuminating the streets of Kendal and promoting Kendal's Shopping Centre during the Christmas period.

This year the event's organisers are determined to outshine last year's achievements, with an even bigger auction held on Friday, October 20, at Kendal Town Hall, which Kendal Town Centre Manager Maria Appleton hopes will be a real community event.

She said: "The auction was great fun last year and we really want everyone who feels like having a go to take part.

It is an auction for anyone, and there is nothing to worry about.

Just come along and try it out.

It will be held over lunch so people who work should be able to come along too."

And after all that hard bidding there will also be refreshments provided at the town hall.

Local traders have entered into the festive spirit once again with offers coming in thick and fast, from a hamper of meat from Cranstons on Stramongate to a piano tuning session from Cumbria Piano Services.

One of the most popular lots last year was an invitation to tea at the House of Commons from Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Collins.

Once again the invitation to sit out on the terraces overlooking the Thames will go to the highest bidder.

With items valued from £5 upwards there should be something for every budding bidder.

To donate an item for the auction contact Maria Appleton on 01539 740030.