By Saul Cooke-Black

CHRISTMAS tree lights will give Stroud town centre a winter wonderland feel this year.

The lights, costing £4,500, will be funded by last year’s saving when the council were unable to find lights which were fit for use.

Stroud mayor Kevin Cranston said: “We appreciate that the lights add to the atmosphere of the town and we are committed to supporting our local shops.

“We were thrilled with traders’ great response to our tree scheme last year and we are keen to build up that partnership to ensure the town looks its best this Christmas.”

The town council agreed to buy drop icicle lights to replace its outdated lights which are no longer suitable for use.

They will take less space to store and are easier to install than the previous ones.

For the second year running, the town council, working with Stroud Chamber of Commerce, is also providing free Christmas trees and holders to businesses.

The free tree offer is open to businesses in suitable areas and is subject to availability.

There will also be free tree iron holders on a first come first served basis.

Businesses need to register their interest by November 2.

Contact town council at council@stroudtown.gov.uk or Fiona Mills-Carlyon on fiona.moonflower@icloud.com.