CHRISTMAS spirit has gripped a village which has put up festive lights for the first time.

There are just three sets of lights in the village square of Carlin How, East Cleveland.

But residents group Change - Carlin How Against Neglected General Environments - said the lights cost £1,000 and they could not afford any more.

The money was raised thanks to donations from the Carlin How Club, the Maynard Arms, the Peel Jones Foundry and Cleveland Potash.

They have been put up near the village square shops, where everyone can benefit.

Linda White, of the residents' group, said: "Everyone thinks they are really lovely and everyone has been really positive about it.

"People don't realise how much they cost, but we are hoping to buy another three next year."