THE vandalised Abbotswood Christmas tree in Yate has been restored by volunteers and can now have its lights switched back on.

The Christmas tree was severely damaged over the weekend of Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7 leaving the lights too unsafe to use and the tree in a poor state.

The lights were originally donated and after the vandalism the Abbotswood Action Group asked for anyone with spare lights to help replace them.

A member of St Nicholas Church, Abbotswood, who wishes to remain anonymous, donated money towards the new lights and said: "I offered the money for the good of the community."

The town celebrated the lights being turned on for the first time on the green at the Abbotswood Christmas event on Saturday, November 29 with more than 300 people attending the town's festivities.

The new lights were put up on the tree on Thursday, December 11 by volunteers in the area.

Local resident and councillor Paul Hulbert, said: “The community has rallied round to deal with the recent vandal damage to the Christmas tree.

“Well done to everyone involved.

"There were several offers to replace the lights. This shows how local community spirit in the Abbotswood area is building up.”

If you know anything about the vandalism to the tree, call the police on 101.

To contact Abbotswood Action Group email: abbotswoodaction@gmail.com.