Festive tree 'superb' after last year's let down

The festive lights in Fulwell were switched on last week

A "fabulous" lights switch-on of a community's new Christmas tree has made up for its disappointing predecessor, a resident has said.

Last year's festive tree in Fulwell, Sunderland, had been transported all the way from Italy and cost £3,500.

But it came under criticism for being too small and was targeted by vandals who stripped off its decorations and lighting.

However, this year the community has a 25ft (7.6m) tree and its lights switch-on on Thursday was "superb", local resident Paula Mitchinson said.

Mrs Mitchinson, who went along to the event with her dog Bailey, told Radio Newcastle: "It was a fabulous switch on and it does make up for what happened to it last year."

Richard Beck, of Fulwell Community Library and chair of the Fulwell Traders' Association said more than 200 people showed up for the switch on.

"It went off really well," he said.

Last year's tree was criticised for being too small and was targeted by vandals

"There were lots of little kiddies around as well to watch the switch on so I'm hoping that all the people who were there really can buy into it and everybody around realises that this is really special," Mrs Mitchinson added.

"It was very, very cold, but it was a lovely feeling."

The festive lights were switched on by former Sunderland player and current club ambassador Kevin Ball.

For several years, the area's festive trees have been paid for by the Sea Road and Fulwell Traders' Association.

However, this year it was announced the city council's North Sunderland Area Committee would pay about £1,700 for a new one, as well as additional costs for lighting.

Mr Beck said the tree is the best in the city.

"When you look at other trees that have been put up in Sunderland, I think we've got the best of the bunch," he said.

"It's a lovely tree, it's well lit."