A PUBLIC appeal for a sponsor for Alton's Market Square Christmas Tree has proved fruitful with local company, PJ Grace, coming to the rescue in time for the Christmas lights switch-on on Friday, November 28.
Chairman of Alton Town Council's Recreation Committee, Roger Fitzer, is delighted by the offer: "We are very grateful to PJ Grace for offering to sponsor our tree.
Several other local companies offered to help, to whom we are also grateful; it is comforting to know that despite all the doom and gloom, people still find it in their hearts to be so generous."
Paul Grace of PJ Grace Commercial and Domestic Garden Maintenance said of his decision: "We wanted to sponsor the tree as it will be like giving something back to the community that keeps us in business throughout the year. We don't believe in doom and gloom - we keep smiling!"
This year the town's lighting display will see new fixtures on the walls and columns in Turk Street, to replace the traditional cross-road display, and a more decorative barrier around the tree in the Market Square.
The search is still on, however, for an empty shop to house an illuminated crib. While the crib traditionally stood in the Public Gardens, in more recent years it has become prone to vandalism and has not been displayed. Because it is felt to symbolise the true meaning of Christmas, councillors are trying to find alternative accommodation for the crib throughout the month of December.
If anyone is able to help they are asked to contact deputy town clerk, Greg Burt on 01420 83986.