Just as people have recycled their yuletide trees and put away their decorations, Brent Central’s MP is calling on the borough to unite – to switch the Christmas lights back on this year.

Dawn Butler has launched a petition urging Brent Council to join residents and shopkeepers to bring festive cheer back to the high streets.

The council switched off funding for Christmas lights for good in 2011 in response to government cuts to its budget.

The Labour politician said: “Over the Christmas period I was disappointed to see there were no Christmas lights brightening up our vibrant high streets in Brent. As I visited the shops people commented on the lack of lights.

“The Christmas lights proudly lit up Brent’s high streets the last time I was the MP and it’s a real shame they were switched off in 2011.

“I’m not calling the council a Grinch, as I know difficult decisions have to be made, but I know that together we can make it happen.

“I will contribute to it, and businesses are willing to contribute to it aswell having spoken to many. Brent Council has to obviously, we have to keep our high streets alive.”

She added: “We could have them up from Divali in November right through until Christmas. Lights makes our streets safer and everyone happier, it’s a win-win.”

Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of the council said: “Right now, we’re asking residents what they think about our proposals to cope with the hundreds of millions of pounds of cuts that the government has made in Brent since 2010. We’ve had to make some tough choices, but are always open to new ideas.

“If Dawn can get local businesses on board, we’d be happy to have another look at this.”To sign the petition go to dawnbutler.org.uk/brent_christmas