Tree of light campaign launches this weekend

The Rotary Club of Royal Leamington Spa is again raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support in it’s 11th annual Trees of Light project which begins at switch on events at St Margaret’s church tomorrow (Saturday) at 5.30pm and at Leamington town hall at 3.30pm on Sunday during the Christmas lights switch-on in the town centre

Lisa Boulby, a volunteer fundraiser for Macmillan who is the head of the charity’s Friends of Warwickshire group, is co-ordinating Macmillan’s collection effort for the first time this year.

The 27-year-old, who lives in Kenilworth, said: “I really like charity work and I enjoy fundraising and I wanted some more experience and to do more in the community.

“Eventually I got really involved with Macmillan, it’s such an amazing charity which is really rewarding to work for.

“Everybody seems to know Macmillan and wants to help the cause.

“Donations are coming in thick and fast now and it’s great.”

Everyone who makes a donation to the campaign can also dedicate a light on one of the trees to a loved one who has been separated from them because of bereavement or geography.

These lights will shine throughout Christmas and into the new year.

Mrs Boulby, who lost her grandfather Granville Cooper to cancer ten years ago, said: “Making a donation is a fantastic way to a family member who has passed away and it’s a really lovely thing to do at Christmas.

“Also, if people can get along to the switch-on events then they will really enjoy them.”

One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lives.

Macmillan improves the lives of people affected by the disease by providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support and campaigns for better cancer care.

The charity provides its own services and works with partners including the NHS so it can continue to develop.

The Rotary Trees of Light campaign has raised almost £40,000 for good causes over the years and last year the club donated £4,000 to Macmillan.

David Swain, branch president, said: “We at Royal Leamington Spa Rotary Club are delighted to be again associated with the Rotary Trees of Light in Leamington and Whitnash.

“This is one of the highlights of the year in regards to our charity fundraising.

“To know that our efforts are fully supported by the community is very much appreciated.”

Donations can be made using the form (right) and delivered to Leamington town hall or Whitnash Town Council’s office in Franklin Road.

Alternatively donations and dedications can be made online. www.macmillan.tributefunds.com/thesparrotarytreeoflight