THE villages of Calstock and Gunnislake will get a welcome boost this year to help with Christmas lighting.

Calstock Parish Council has for many years provided a donation of £250 each year to each of the villages towards their Christmas lighting fund — but this year, the council has decided to up the amount.

At a full council meeting last week, it was suggested to increase the donations to £300 for each village.

Parish clerk Sue Lemon said: 'Last year, and for many years, we have given them £250 each without them asking because it is something we regularly do.'

The Gunnislake Christmas lights committee asked for an increase this year, due to the need to replace lighting.

Cllr Steve Jaggard said: 'How many years have we been giving them £250?

'If we have the funds available, could we afford to be a bit more generous?'

The council unanimously agreed to increase the donations to £300.