CHRISTMAS arrived at The Wharf in Tavistock when the West Devon branch of the NSPCC switched on the lights of their charity Christmas tree.

Every year, the tree is decorated with baubles which can be sponsored by individuals or businesses to raise money to fund NSPCC child protection services locally.

Everyone who sponsors a bauble is listed in the Times in the December 21 edition of the paper.

The tree lights were switched on by West Devon and Plymouth branch chairman Sam Doel at The Wharf on December 1, the day of Tavistock’s Dickensian Evening.

‘This raised a fantastic amount last year and we are absolutely thrilled to be doing it again,’ she said. ‘It has raised £200,000 in the 21 years I have been involved in the event.’

Sam herself discovered the Christmas tree which features at The Wharf this year, which was donated by Tavistock recycling store ReFURNISH.

‘The lady who donated it didn’t want the tree anymore, and it’s a big tree, 7ft tall, so The Wharf was thrilled,’ said Sam, who lives in Yelverton.

A gathering of dignitaries watched Sam switch the lights on, including Mayor of West Devon Jeff Moody and deputy mayor of Tavistock Paul Ward. Also present was Times general manager Lianne Hunt.

Lianne said: ‘We’ are proud to be part of the baubles event and proud to support it, as we have done for many years with the support of local businesses.’

Times’ senior advertising executive Kay Slater added: ‘Everyone is great at supporting it and we even have people calling us up saying they would like to sponsor a bauble.’

There is still time to sponsor a bauble on the tree and feature in the Times on December 21. Call Sophie Cook on 01822 613666 or email [email protected].

• Pictured are Plymouth and Tavistock NSPCC chairperson Sam Doel (left) with Tavistock Times general manager Lianne Hunt (front), Mayor of West Devon Jeff Moody, deputy mayor of Tavistock Paul Ward and supporters at the switching on of the Christmas lights at The Wharf, Tavistock. Picture by James Bird.