Saviour rescues Oxford St lights

Oxford Street will stage its famous Christmas lights after all, despite many retailers refusing to help with the£205,000 cost.

The festive display was almost abandoned when insufficient cash was raised.

But the world-famous illuminations won a last-minute reprieve when lighting contractor Piggotts stepped in to make up a£45,000 shortfall.

Oxford Street Association director Sally Humphreys said an absence of lights would have embarrassed the West End.

Selfridges, Allders, Signet and Marks & Spencer all contributed, while those who failed to donate money included Bhs.