Ilkley people dreaming of a white Christmas have been left feeling distinctly off-colour at the blue illuminations on a town centre Christmas tree.

Local councillors recently said they did not want to see the return of the blue lights which adorned the large tree at the junction of Brook Street, Station Road and The Grove last Christmas.

But as Bradford Council workers began putting up Ilkley’s 2009 festive lights, it became clear that the town was in line for another blue Christmas.

Readers have already complained to the Gazette about the return of the blue lights, and are writing to Bradford Council about the unseasonal colour of the lights.

Some commentators have condemned the blue lights as ‘naff’ and ‘depressing’.

Readers who contacted the Gazette said they would prefer white lights or a selection of cheery multi-coloured illuminations.

Ilkley Parish Council chairman Kate Brown says the local council is not responsible for choosing the coloured lights on the tree. Although the parish council pays thousands of pounds towards Christmas lights each year and has a hand in choosing the festive illuminations to light up the streets, the Brook Street tree is chosen and put up by Bradford Council.

However, there could be light at the end of the tunnel for those who think the blue Christmas tree is too gloomy – it is hoped some sparkling white lights will be added in time for Christmas.

Some of the trees on Brook Street, and in Mill Ghyll, are also decked with blue and white lights.

Coun Brown said the parish council had heard some complaints about the blue Christmas tree lights last year, but she said it had also heard compliments from people who liked them.

“I think last year we had as many people against them as were who liked them,” she said.

A Bradford Council spokesman said officers were in discussions with Ilkley Parish Council about the provision of white lights for the tree. Bradford city centre also has blue lights which have been a popular choice with several local authorities this year.