Margate: Fundraising bid to raise money for a Christmas tree in Cecil Square
17:33, 22 November 2017
Locals have announced 'Christmas has been cancelled' after it was revealed that one town square won't be getting a Christmas tree this year.
They have now taken it upon themselves to get a tree, and a JustGiving crowdfunding page has been set up to pay for Christmas lights and decorations in Cecil Square, Margate.
In 2014, Thanet District Council stopped paying for decorations in a bid to save money.
Disappointed locals were left with the prospect of seeing the Margate square with no decorations with Christmas a little over four weeks away.
Local Rachel Hamlin set up the JustGiving page today appealing to people to donate so that a tree could be paid for.
Writing on the page, Rachel said: “So here we are again, last year the community had to pull together to decorate the tree.
"But this year this is no tree to decorate.
“We need £2000 to get the tree and erect it, put lights on.
"Cecil Square has never not had a tree.
"Even if it’s only a small amount please donate so we can keep the tradition going.”
Within a few hours of launching, the JustGiving appeal reached 15% of its target.
One wrote: “Let's get this Christmas tree up and make Margate twinkle!”
Another said: “Keep up the good work making our town look great like it did last year!”
So far, more than £300 has been donated.
Another donor wrote: “Lets light up Margate Cecil Square for the community to enjoy the festive spirit!”
To donate, click here
Last year, locals hit back at the Christmas tree effort made after a tree was put up with just one string of lights on it in the square.
Julia Gipson tweeted KentOnline to say: "This is Margate's Christmas tree on the right many are not happy with it what a shambles."