A FOREST of Christmas trees has sprung up in the town centre in aid of Bury Hospice.

The hospice's festival of Christmas trees was officially launched in the Mill Gate on Saturday (November 15).

The fundraising challenge, which raised £5,000 last year, sees businesses invited to donate a Christmas tree and add products to it before the general public bid on the trees in a silent auction.

Jacqui Comber, chief executive at Bury Hospice, said: “Once again we are so grateful that local businesses and support groups have entered into the Christmas spirit to help raise funds for the hospice.

"I would really encourage readers to bid in the silent auction which closes on December 15 as there are some fabulous prizes on offer!"

Businesses can also provide the promise of products in the form of vouchers if necessary and can promote themselves and their products or services within the tree’s decoration, which are on display in unit five of The Mall.

Also present at the launch event were Pete Mason and Paul Walker from Greenmount Cricket Club, who raised £827 for the hospice by holding a fundraising night in memory of ex-player Paul 'Dobbo' Leach on November 1.

Presenting a cheque for £1,000 in customer donations to the hospice was Tony Hall from Tony's Cards in Bury Market.

Michelle King, community and events fundraiser at Bury Hospice, said companies which have already signed up to take part in the festival of Christmas trees include Asda, Mr. Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, Seasons and Trends, Wilkinsons, Slattery’s, Grace Cole, L’Oreal, Love your Fit, The Village Hotel, and the Bury Hospice shop on The Rock, and the hospice.

She added:“We have already been donated some great prizes to attach to a Bury Hospice tree including a Christmas turkey, Landrover experience and paintball tickets.”

To donate a tree, or supply products or services which can be auctioned off with a Bury Hospice tree: contact Michelle on 0161 797 1748.