They claimed South Street was dull when compared to the Market Place and Bath Street. But they were told a similar blueprint had been drawn up for this year.

They voted to urge Erewash Borough Council to increase its budget but said much more was needed to attract customers, especially with major expansion at the Ikea complex at Giltbrook, near Eastwood.

At a meeting organised by Erewash Partnership, which tries to stimulate the local economy, they sought changes to car parking charges and said street entertainers could give the town a more cheerful image.

Cafe owner Mike Avery said: "What we should be doing is creating an atmosphere around Christmas of a carnival of both happiness and joy.

"The town is on its uppers but where does it go next? We are competing with the Westfield Centre in Derby. Let's promote our town properly - we're fed up with being down at heel."

Anthony Doar, who runs a gift shop on South Street, said the Christmas lights were by far the worst in the four towns where he owns stores. He said other parts of Ilkeston had been more brightly lit.

"We are paying the same percentage rates. We are not being treated the same. The majority of traders on South Street feel left out," he told officials from the borough council on Tuesday.

Mr Doar claimed the Christmas lights budget stood at £36,500 two years ago but had been trimmed to £20,000, a figure he described as "inadequate" for the towns of llkeston and Long Eaton.

Regulatory services director Sue Blakeley said she would pass the traders' concerns to councillors who approve policy and financial matters.

"Before the budget is set for next year, there is an ideal opportunity for traders to lobby the council on priorities for investing in the town centre and in lights at Christmas.

"I recognise there is local feeling," said Mrs Blakeley, who said some lights were being replaced because they failed safety checks. New bulbs were much brighter.

Council officer Barrie Walford said some South Street lights might be re-arranged to cover more of the area. Traders can spend £400 on a display which would also cost £150 annually to have it fixed and tested.

Co-op deputy manager Teresa Winfield said traders were annoyed last year when Westfield shopping vouchers were handed out to crowds in Ilkeston Market Place for the Christmas lights switch-on.

Council officials said they were unaware of this and thought they might have come from a commercial radio station which took part in the event.