CHRISTMAS is cancelled in Pinner - unless cold-hearted traders pay up for the traditional festivities.

The 'Scrooges' are claiming they are too strapped for cash to fund the annual Pinner Pantomime Evening and pay for the village's Christmas lights.

It means the traditional show, which features performances from hundreds of children and is attended by thousands, could be axed and the village left in darkness over the Yule period.

So far 11 businesses have made contributions of between £80 to £140 but at least 50 need to come forward to raise the £7,000 required for the show to go ahead.

Chloe Abrahams, nine, from Pinner, said: "I'll be really disappointed if the pantomime is cancelled. It is something I look forward to every year. The Christmas lights also brighten up the dark winter nights. It is a really exciting time of year, especially for children."

Pinner Pantomime Evening is one of the biggest annual events in the village and is funded by local businesses and the Pinner Association. This year's event was planned for November 27.

During the popular evening around 500 children sing carols and dance in the streets. Shops decorate windows and staff wear fancy dress while more than 10,000 people enjoy fairground rides and the many other attractions including a Santa's Grotto.

Sharon Pink, Pinner Pantomime Evening Committee member, said: "Because so many businesses have changed owners it may be that local traders are not aware how important the Pantomime Evening is to the local community and how important it is that all traders get behind the event to ensure it continues.

"With the event costs increasing every year it is vitally important all local businesses join together to support. This is Pinner's premier event for its residents and in particular its children who look so forward to showcasing their singing and dancing talents."

Haydn Davies, also on the committee, said: "Although I sent out school invitations just over a week ago replies are already beginning to come back.

"They have already said how much they are looking forward to taking part. The event shows the positive side of youth culture which should be promoted by all."

To help save the Pinner Pantomime Evening and raise money for the village Christmas lights please contact Sharon Pink on 020 8582 2513.

* Join the Observer's campaign to save Christmas. Email tarabrady@ trinitysouth.co.uk, write to 5th floor, Congress House, Lyon Road, Harrow, HA1 2EN or visit our Harrow Observer Facebook site.