Debate on free entry to lights

Plans to scrap entry fees at Walsall Illuminations have been discussed by council chiefs, it was revealed today.

Officers at the local authority have floated the idea of reducing costs and making the annual event free, but leading councillors insist the lights show must pay for itself. Blackpool's illuminations have always been free to the public.

A record low turnout in Walsall combined with a loss of £120,000 has prompted organisers into a rethink.

They have blamed a turn out of just 111,000 – compared to 377,000 in 1989 – on the decision to reduce the annual attraction's run from six to five weeks, along with the economic slump.

This year leisure bosses were criticised for raising entry fees despite last year's low attendance. The future of the show at the arboretum will be discussed by councillors next week.