Delight as Market Drayton Christmas tree appeal tops £7,000

A charity appeal in Market Drayton has defied the economic gloom to raise more than £7,000 for good causes, organisers revealed today.

Despite the tough economic times, Market Drayton Rotary Club said its annual Christmas Tree of Light Appeal raised more than £7,100 over the Christmas period. Although the amount is not a record total, club members said the amount raised was almost as much as in 2010.

The tree, sponsored by companies and members of the public, went up outside Morrisons supermarket in Maer Lane during the festive period.

It was festooned with lights and messages from appeal supporters.

The appeal invited people to leave messages in memory of loved ones or in support of certain causes.

Club members today welcomed the fundraising efforts of people in the town.

"I think that the total is marvellous considering the economic situation" said club president John Walgrove. "The people of Market Drayton and district have been most generous."

He added the money raised will be donated to chosen charities in the coming weeks.

Mr Walgrove said he wanted to thank Morrisons for allowing the tree to go up on its land and Onions and Davies Solicitors for receiving postal donations during the appeal.

The total raised includes money from charity collections at bag packing days in the store and at the carol service in the Festival Drayton Centre.

The money raised will be shared among local and national charities.

These include the Pro- state Cancer Fund, Help for Heroes, the Rotary Club's Charitable Trust, Market Drayton First Responders and the Royal Irish Regiment's Benevolent Fund. A presentation evening is to take place on January 31st at the Four Alls, near Market Drayton.

Anyone interested in joining Market Drayton Rotary Club and taking part in a social and fundraising activities, can contact Frank Fuller on (01630) 655555.