Tree installed for Market Drayton Tree of Light appeal
A giant Christmas tree has once again been installed outside a supermarket in a town as part of a popular campaign.
Market Drayton Lions Club has put up the tree outside Morrisons in Maer Lane as part of the Tree of Light Appeal.
The tradition sees people sponsor a light for a loved one or special cause with the proceeds given to charity.
The tree was first set up in the 1990s and since then it has become a symbol of both Christmas and personal remembrance in Market Drayton.
Last year, Market Drayton’s Tree of Light Appeal faced the axe after the town’s Rotary club, which previously ran the appeal, admitted it was closing because of a lack of members.
But the town’s Lions club stepped in to save the campaign.
Ron Guy, a member of Market Drayton Lions Club, said: “Personal sponsors so far has raised £630 with more coming in every day.
"A host of companies has also sponsored the tree raising a total of £240."
The companies to sponsor the tree include Salop Mobility, Little Tea Room, Owens Memorials, HMS Jewellery, House of Carpets, Graham Withers solicitors, Hales Osteopath, Town Barbers and Meadons insurance.
"Market Drayton Lions would also like to thank Morrisons for allowing us to place the tree and for donating gifts to the schools entering the Christmas tree decorations competition.
"The tree was donated by Tern Fisheries and transported by Jim Ford with help from James and Edward Llewellyn," Mr Guy added.
In 2014 the Rotary club raised more than £6,000 and in 2013 they raised more than £5,000. Last year, the appeal raised more than £3,000.
For more information call 01630 654958 or 296201. Sponsor forms are available at the Morrisons customer service desk.
