A DEFIANT hamlet continued with its festive lights switch-on despite uncharitable thieves lopping three foot off their Christmas tree just before the annual event.
Lydgate residents were fuming at the attack on the gaily decorated tree which takes pride of place at the junction of Stockport Road and Oldham Road.
Jennifer Greenwood, chair of Love Lydgate, said: “At first we thought it might have been the strong winds that damaged it.
“But in examination, someone had climbed up our ‘Welcome to Lydgate’ sign and damaged the letters.
“It’s very sad that a thoughtless couple of people try to spoil the fun of so many.”
She added defiantly: “It’s still our tree and though it’s now a bit stumpy we still love it.
“We hope it will shine out even brighter and we are grateful of the terrific support from the Rotary Club of Saddleworth.
“Shame on the vandals. Santa won’t be coming to your houses.”
Now the welcome sign has been repaired and the lights switch-on went ahead on Thursday, December 3 at 6pm.
Little Edward, aged five, who recently moved to the village with his family, turned on the lights while Father Christmas was chauffeured in a vintage white Jaguar.
Mulled wine was supplied by Love Lydgate and the White Hart, followed by sausage butties at the Parish Hall, songs from St Anne’s Primary School choir, meeting Santa and stalls of cakes and sweets from the Guides.
Love Lydgate are supported by Saddleworth Rotary, led by Community Officer Jon Stocker and friend of Lydgate Gill Bussey.
(Pictures by Trevor Baxter)
That’s the spirit, Lydgate! I love your tree, too. Season’s greetings from the USA.