Rising costs of power have contributed to a decision to pull the plug on one of Sheppey’s most popular fundraising events.

Islanders have reacted with sadness at the news the annual switch on and dazzling display of Christmas lights in Foxley Road, Queenborough, will no longer take place.

Organisers Pat and John Down and Sharon and Phil Williams have been discussing its future since last year’s event and made the announcement last week.

Mrs Down said they made the difficult decision because of the ever-increasing costs of power coupled with some residents’ concerns about their own ability to continue as they get older.

This year would have been the 12th switch-on after the first one in 2000 raised £130.

It grew from there and every year, local charities and good causes have benefited from the money raised by visitors to the display and a street party and barbecue on switch-on night.

Mrs Down, 61, estimates they have raised more than £15,000 over the years.

She said it first started after her husband suggested putting letters round to see if people would be interested in taking part and having a street party and barbecue.

"It was only going to be a one off but because it was so successful we carried on," she said.

"Everyone thought it was a really good idea and said how lovely it was."

"It’s been a hard decision to make.

"Although it was hard work, the pleasure on that switch-on night to see what everyone had done was quite heart wrenching.

"When you think back over the years it’s quite unbelievable really."

The organisers expressed their sincere thanks to all the residents for their support and to those who visited and contribute to the collections.

Mrs Down added that they are sure some residents will continue to light up their displays and said they plan to carry on with the quiz nights which have been held for the past two years.

She added: "We will make other ways to raise money – so watch this space."

Representatives from Island good causes that have benefited have paid tribute to the organisers.

The Swale Magpies’ under-10s team was able to buy a new kit.

Coach Paul Allen said: "It was a fantastic boost when we were named beneficiaries of funds for our new season kit, after having our old kit for two years.

"I am saddened by the news but I do realise how much hard work and time the residents of Foxley Road put in.

"We will continue to wear our kit with pride and continue to be grateful to all the residents."

Rodney Holkham, of The Dannyboy Trust, said: "It is a great shame Foxley Road lights are not going to light up the night sky during the Christmas celebrations any more.

"They had certainly become one of the Island’s must-see delights but after so many years of hard work and dedication and with the costs involved continually increasing, it is fully understandable why it has become too much.

"We at the trust, as have many others, have benefited from a wonderful donation from organisers.

"They should all feel great pride in their achievements and the superb support they have given to so many good causes. "We wish them all the very best in the future."

We asked members of our Facebook group what they thought. Here’s some edited responses:

Julie Persichini: Such a shame, it really is. People travel to see them!

Katrina Lennox-Gurr: That’s a shame they were great. Well done everyone for the past 11 years.

Barry Snow: How very, very sad.

Kerry-Jane Deadman: It will be my little boy’s first Christmas and we were looking forward to taking him.

Charlienne Evans: What a shame. My son is 11 and he loves it.

Sherry Crook: Aw, that is such a shame. I’m sure most of the householders who are festive enough and can do their house, will still do them.

Sarah Wootton: Such a shame. It really got everyone feeling festive.

Richard Jones: It’s a shame but the Foxley Road residents can feel proud they have made so many people smile over the years. Well done to you all.