MALVERN Rotary Club says it has had a good response to its Tree of Light appeal, supported by the Malvern Gazette & Ledbury Reporter.

The scheme is in its first year and local companies have now pledged sufficient support to cover the cost of lights and electrical equipment, which will also be available to use in future years.

It means that all money raised through the sponsorship of individual lights on the tree in Priory Park can be donated to Macmillan Cancer Relief, which will use the funds to support its work in South Worcestershire.

Residents are invited to sponsor a light to remember a loved one at Christmas. Some 480 bulbs will light up the 80ft Christmas tree in Priory Park. The lights, in 12 strings about 15 metres long, will be officially switched on at 6.30pm on December 2. They will be illuminated every evening until January 6.

Lights can still be sponsored by using the form printed in the Malvern Gazette.