Swindon's Christmas lights could be up as early as next week after the Evening Advertiser helped the promotions committee beat cash flow problems.

Two weeks ago it looked as though the plug would have to be pulled following an apathetic response to the committee's appeal for funds.

There was just £4,000 in the bag and traders were refusing to chip in any more.

But following a report on page one in the Evening Advertiser, two major investors came forward to offer Swindon the best present it could hope for.

"We had to take a step of faith and thankfully it paid off," said town centre manager Bernie Maguire. "The lights will be as good as, if not better than last year's."

Rather than pledge cash, the Wyvern Theatre and Swindon Contractors have both offered to subsidise the project.

Bernie explained: "There are always the two specifics which cost the most the switch on event and the installation of the street lights."

This year the Wyvern Theatre will take charge of the switching on ceremony.

It will provide entertainment in the form of its pantomime stars including Aleetza Wood (Peta Janossi from Home and Away) and the Tanwood dancers.

Meanwhile, Swindon Contractors have offered to install the lights in the town centre and Old Town at a greatly reduced price.

Bernie estimates the saving to be in the region of £10,000.

He said: "It has reduced what we need to spend so in return what we need to raise. They are basically giving us goodies in kindness."

The Brunel Centre has also stepped in to cover the cost of the Christmas Carnival a total of £12,000.

However, the Evening Advertiser's report spurred many traders to make donations after all.

Some had originally decided not to in protest to the council at the state of the town centre.

There is now almost £40,000 in the kitty.

The switching on service will take place in the heart of the centre near BHS and the Discovery Store on Thursday 23 November from 5.30pm.

Other festivities will include live reindeer outside the front of House of Fraser a santa's grotto in the style of a space station and carol concert sponsored by the Evening Advertiser at 7.30pm outside Debenhams.