The Rotary Club of Oswestry is getting ready for it's annual Tree of Light switch on.

For the last 21 years the club's annual Christmas Tree of Light Appeal has raised money for local charities whilst providing the people of Oswestry the chance to 'light a light' on the beautiful Christmas tree that stands in front of Sainsbury's store in remembrance of a significant event in their lives.

Memories of the passing of a loved one or to celebrate a joyous event such as a graduation, engagement, wedding or the birth of a child may be recognised by sponsoring the appeal with a donation of a minimum of £5.00 which all goes to assist local charities.

Over recent years, the appeal has been well supported raising more £6,000 each year, a total which the event organiser Mike Jones thinks can be topped in this special year.

"I am delighted that the people of Oswestry have taken this festive appeal to their heart and I am hopeful that in our special 21st year we will be able to continue to raise the bar." Mike said.

"By completing a sponsor form which may be obtained from the Club's website (where you may also donate online), from Paperwrite on Church Street or from Sainsbury's store and returning it as indicated on the form, donors may record a message in the Book of Remembrance kept in Sainsbury's over Christmas and will receive a commemorative card for their home."

Inviting as many people as possible to this year's Switch on Event Mike continued: "Let's start the Christmas season off with a bang.

"We are delighted that the Porthywaen Silver Band will once again be playing carols for community singing by the Tree of Light from 4.30pm on Saturday November 24 before the lights are switched on at 5:00pm by Denzil Ellis, a long-serving member of Oswestry Rotary Club who has provided invaluable assistance to the smooth running of the appeal over the years."

Retired Electrical Consultant Denzil, who is stepping back from the appeal, will be joined by Father Christmas to get the crowd into the Christmas spirit.

Mike said: "We must not forget to thank the businesses who sponsor this event without whom the appeal could not take place - in particular the magnificent tree donated by Mike Williams and brought to the site by the Royce family each year that we all enjoy."