THE generosity and community spirit that has helped the Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Airbase Appeal inch closer to its fundraising target was also on display when dozens came together to light up a Trowbridge Church with a Christmas tree festival.

A total of 64 artificial Christmas trees glittered and sparkled at St James’ Church, Church Street, thanks to local charities, schools. businesses and the town council, among others, showing off their decorated entries in aid of the airbase appeal.

After organisers Dorothy McNeish and Cath Senior were blown away by the beautifully decorated trees, they were thrilled to raise £1,110 was raised towards the airbase, at Outmarsh Farm in Semington, and also homeless drop-in centre Breakthrough Trowbridge.

“It was hard to describe just how happy we were with how generous the local community were,” said Mrs Senior.

“Each and every tree helped brighten up the church even more. When they were all lit up together, it was spectacular to see, it really was magical.

“We wanted to raise funds for two excellent local causes and these two really fitted the bill. The airbase appeal has been incredible so it is nice to help them inch a little closer to the target.

“The two of us began asking parties about putting up a Christmas tree back in September, so it was a long slog, but it really was worth it. The Air Ambulance had a lovely little tree too, with little yellow and green air ambulances on it.”

The festival, which took place from November 28-December 2, went from strength to strength as last year 58 trees were used for the event.

“It just goes to show that people really wanted to show off their work and help some local causes,” said Mrs McNeish.

“The church really had the wow effect for the time the festival was on. We had well over 1,500 visitors too which was fantastic to see.”

Construction work on the new airbase has entered the final phase but a further £225,000 still needs to be raised to complete the project.

Hollie Perryman, donor relationship assistant at WAA, said: “We’re so grateful to the organisers of the Christmas tree festival at St James’ Church, Trowbridge, for supporting our Airbase Appeal. The display in the church was stunning and we were honoured that the organisers decorated a tree on our behalf.”

To donate call 01380 739453 or go to www.wiltshireairbaseappeal.co.uk