More than £400 has been raised by this year’s Tree of Memories at Shrewsbury Market Hall.
In return for a charity donation, members of the public were invited to write a message to a friend, relative, loved one, or even a pet, past and present, and attach it to a bauble which was placed on the tree over the festive period.
A total of £407 was raised for this year’s nominated charity, the Lingen Davies Cancer Appeal. People who placed a bauble on the tree are invited to collect it for a keepsake in the New Year from the site management office at the market.
The Tree of Memories was officially launched at the beginning of December by stars from Theatre Severn’s pantomime, Aladdin.
Widow Twankey, aka Brad Fitt and the Emperor of China, played by Eric Smith, took time out from their busy programme to mark the start of the campaign, which is now in its sixth year.
Charities that have benefited from the scheme in the past include Hope House, Macmillan Cancer Support and NSPCC.
Helen Ball, Town Clerk for Shrewsbury Town Council which has provided this year’s 12 ft tree said: “The Town Council would like to thank members of the public who have raised such a generous amount for charity, despite the tough economic climate. I’m sure the monies raised will be very warmly received by Lingen Davies who do a fantastic job caring for cancer patients in Shropshire.”
Kate Gittins, site facilities manager at the Market Hall said: “We are delighted the Tree of Memories has been able to raise much needed funds for charity for the sixth year running. Anyone who sponsored a bauble is welcome to collect it in the New Year if they’d like to have it as a keepsake.”
For more information on the Market Hall log on to www.markethallshrewsbury.co.uk
For further information contact Suzi Wilkinson, Marketing & Promotions Officer on: 01743 257654 or email suzi.wilkinson-stc@shropshire.gov.uk