Chichester’s Christmas Tree of Goodwill installed in city centre

The Rotary Clubs of Chichester have installed the Tree of Goodwill at Chichester Market Cross.
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The tree was transported from Cranleigh to Chichester and put up last weekend before being decorated last Wednesday (November 18).

There was no ceremony with marching bands or choirs for the Christmas lights switch-on event this year, but Rotary members said there was much cheer, goodwill and lovely comments from passers-by.

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Most Rotary fundraising events were cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, but many groups, individuals and companies came together to help raise the money needed for the tree.

The Rotary Tree of Goodwill is put in place at the Chichester Market CrossThe Rotary Tree of Goodwill is put in place at the Chichester Market Cross
The Rotary Tree of Goodwill is put in place at the Chichester Market Cross

Doug Price, community team leader for the Rotary Club of Chichester Priory, said: “The Rotary Clubs of Chichester sincerely thank those companies and organisations who contributed to this year’s Rotary Christmas Tree of Goodwill and therefore made it happen in these difficult times, for the benefit of the Chichester community and visitors to the city of Chichester.

“Our thanks therefore go out to local contacts from South Chichester County Local Committee, Chichester City Council, RJS Waste Management, Bradley Electrical, Allan Lang Forestry, B&M Plant Hire, Amerra Groundworks and Beaver Tool Hire who helped to achieve this result.”

Santa’s Grotto will also be in place alongside the tree from next Thursday until Christmas Eve for socially-distanced visits and donations to the Rotary Christmas Appeal.

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Christmas sacks and food vouchers are also being assembled, ready for distribution to children and families in need.

The decorated Rotary Tree of Goodwill at the Chichester Market CrossThe decorated Rotary Tree of Goodwill at the Chichester Market Cross
The decorated Rotary Tree of Goodwill at the Chichester Market Cross

On Christmas Day Rotary will be delivering freshly cooked meals to people who are alone or lonely.

Mr Price said: “Last year we enjoyed a sit-down Christmas dinner with 100 guests who were transported from around the city, entertained and then enjoyed a glorious happy time and a delightful festive meal. This year we will take the hot meals to them.”

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The Rotary Tree of Goodwill at the Chichester Market Cross waiting to be decoratedThe Rotary Tree of Goodwill at the Chichester Market Cross waiting to be decorated
The Rotary Tree of Goodwill at the Chichester Market Cross waiting to be decorated

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