A 25-FOOT Christmas tree has taken pride of place in the heart of Wroughton thanks to a kind-hearted donation from a developer in the village.

McCarthy and Stone, who are currently building a brand new retirement development on the site of the former Ivy Hotel in Moormead Road, decided to team up with Richard James estate agents to donate the tree as a gesture of good will and spread some Christmas joy.

Thanks to their sponsorship, the Norway Spruce tree is now pride of place outside the Ellendune Community Centre ready for the various Christmas fairs and community activities that will take place at the centre throughout December.

Coun Steve Harcourt, Chairman of Wroughton Parish Council, said: “We’re extremely grateful to McCarthy and Stone and to Richard James estate agents for their generosity in helping us to install this magnificent tree – it looks beautiful and can be admired by everyone in the village. Without the support of companies such as these, Christmas at the Ellendune wouldn’t be the same.”

Construction at McCarthy and Stone’s planned Retirement Living development is now well underway, with the first homeowners expected to move in from summer 2018.

Aimed exclusively at those aged 60 and over, Banks Place will compromise of 38 one and two bedroom luxury apartments, and will feature a homeowner’s lounge - ideal for socialising with friends and neighbours, beautifully landscaped gardens; and a fantastic guest suite for when visitors come and stay.

Kim Caldwell, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for McCarthy and Stone, added: “Christmas is a time when communities like Wroughton really come into their own and celebrate. We were pleased to be able to join in the festivities and we hope the tree will get everyone who visits the centre into the Christmas spirit.

“We’re very much looking forward to becoming an integrated part of the community in Wroughton as we prepare for the opening of our new Banks Place development next year.”

For more information about McCarthy and Stone’s Banks Place development in Wroughton contact McCarthy and Stone on 0800 201 4739, or visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk or pop in to Richard James Estate Agents.