BOURNEMOUTH'S traditional candle-lighting evenings are at risk as the council struggles to balance its books.

The events attract thousands of people to the Lower Gardens and date back more than 100 years.

But this summer's candlelit processions could be the last unless a sponsor can be found.

Until this year members of the public have been invited to light thousands of tea lights displayed in glass holders throughout the Lower Gardens on Wednesday evenings in August.

Families queued for free tapers and enjoyed lighting candles displayed in patterns including a huge Union Flag.

But the events cost around £23,000, forcing the council to call time on the traditional format.

Budget restraints have seen changes this year with the elaborate displays replaced by a procession involving just 50 children and their guardians each week. There are also a small number of jars to be lit by members of the public.

But even the lower cost event may prove to be too expensive at around £10,000.

"Unfortunately, this year the council's budget for the event was significantly reduced, because of the council's continuing budget pressures," said a Bournemouth council spokesman.

"Rather than cutting the event completely we have endeavoured to put on the most cost effective candles events, however this is unlikely to be sustainable in future years. We will be looking at alternative funding resources in the early Autumn.

"Next year there will be no funding. If alternative funding sources aren’t identified, the event won’t be able to go ahead."

The spokesman said the frames used to display the lights in previous years are expensive to maintain and install.

"Unfortunately, over the years they have deteriorated and a lot of them are no longer safe. They need a large cash injection to make them useable, which we don’t have. The event is incredibly labour intensive and a lot of staff hours are needed to make it possible – adding to the cost."

There are just two events left for this year to be held tonight (Weds) and next Wednesday August 30.

Anyone who wishes to take part in the procession must register. Children who take part will receive a small, battery-operated lantern and adults will be handed procession torches if they read safety information and sign a disclaimer.

The parades begin at 8.45pm but there is free children's entertainment from 7pm near the bandstand.