THE people of Marlow are being urged to dip into their pockets to ensure that the town has not seen the last of the popular Christmas late night shopping.

As the seasonal decorations are put away for another year, it was revealed that the traders' evening is under threat due to escalating costs for closing the High Street and a lack of surplus funds from the latest event, which normally contribute towards the following year.

Marlow Chamber of Trade, which raises money for the event, said although the 2008 yuletide occasion was a success, it only managed to break even and there are no reserves for 2009.

Chamber member Angela Aldridge said: “ The reason the general public should donate is that they are the principal beneficiaries either directly by having a good night out, or indirectly by benefiting from the charities that use the event as a fund raiser.

“We are aware of a small proportion of people who have a negative attitude to the event and their concerns where reported are noted and where possible addressed.

“However the general opinion from the surveys done after the event is that is well organised and enjoyed by a wide age range.”

The evening is usually kicked off with the Christmas lights switch on followed by entertainment, music and a chance for buying last minute gifts.

Mrs Aldridge said: “It is the largest event of the year uniting the indigenous people of Marlow, rather than visiting people, many people renew connections with those they meet there.

“If the event was to stop Marlow would lose more of its individuality and that special quality that is so hard to define, even most of those who dislike the event don’t really want to see it stop but just alter some of its content.

“The Chamber is very reluctant to see the event vanish but acknowledges that it must be self funding.”

A ‘guess the location’ picture competition has already raised some money for the coffers.

The winners were: 1st Prize – Mr S Mace, The Ridgeway, Marlow 2nd Prize – Mrs S Galloway, West Street, Marlow 3rd Prize – Mrs G Wright, River Park Drive, Marlow