ROTARIANS and tree surgeons overcame driving rain, hail and high winds to hang the lights onto the tree of light next to Workman Bridge in Evesham.

The main challenge this year was climbing the tree, as the ongoing works on the new bridge meant that a crane could not be used this year because of the traffic lights on Workman Bridge.

Rotarians could only look on in awe as the tree surgeons skilfully scaled to the top of the 100ft tree and pulled up the strings of lights.

Everything is now set for the switch-on which will take place at 6pm on Thursday, December 5. Donations can still be made by visiting the Rotary website at therotaryclubofeve sham.org.uk or using the coupon below.

Meanwhile, the Pershore Tree of Lights in the town centre was illuminated on Saturday. The 30-foot tree located in the centre of the town is provided by Pershore Rotary Club which invites residents to make a donation dedicating a light to remember a late loved one or friend.

All names will be displayed on a board near the tree, on the Pershore Rotary Club website and published in the Journal afterwards.

Last year the tree raised more than £3,000 and this year’s donations will go to The Pershore Riverside Youth Centre, Acorns Children’s Hospice and some will be held for Rotary charities.

The appeal continues until Tuesday, December 31.

To sponsor a light complete a form which you can pick up from Pershore Town Hall, or the Rotary Club website at pershore.rotaryweb.org.