AFTER launching the Christmas appeal at the start of year, the hard work of volunteers has helped to brighten up the village.

The Christmas lights switch-on in Winwick celebrated the success of campaigners who were determined to make this year's tree one to remember.

The group has raised more than £4,000 to buy a new tree and decorations.

In January Claire Brooks, from Winwick, revealed her disappointment following last year’s Christmas tree display and vowed to do something about it.

Throughout the year, the group has held a series of fundraisers including a prosecco stall at Winwick Carnival and selling bacon sandwiches at Winwick Leisure Centre.

Generous donations from residents have also helped to raise the fundraising total to £4,000.

The Christmas tree lights celebration was held on December 2.

Speaking after the event, a spokesman for the group said: "Thank you for all your lovely comments regarding our new village Christmas tree.

"We're all taking a break now until January when we will need to take it down.

"Although we now have the tree we will still be doing fundraising events throughout 2018 as there are ongoing costs involved.

"We are now looking at different areas of the village we can decorate including The square on Winwick Park and the entrance to the playing field on Myddleton Lane."

Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/savewinwickschristmas.