THE future of Southend's famous seafront illuminations is in doubt.

The rising cost of maintaining the light displays means they may not be switched on next year.

Seafront traders contribute up to £100,000 a year towards the lights, with the council adding around £30,000.

Traders are worried that visitor numbers will go down if the lights go out. They are seen as a successful way of keeping the seafront alive well past the end of the summer season.

Published Thursday, December 8, 2005