Trefechan Christmas tree lights up again after theft

The Trefechan tree is back in all its brightly-lit glory in time for Christmas

A village's Christmas tree is sparkling again after the original lights were stolen, leaving residents heartbroken.

The first lights in Trefechan, Merthyr Tydfil, were paid for through community fundraising, only for them to be stripped off the tree.

But the festive spirit has seen new ones donated, and the tree has once again been lit in time for Christmas.

"Honestly it has been incredible, we have been inundated with support," said councillor Lisa Mytton.

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This was the first year Trefechan has put up its own Christmas tree, after it was donated by a construction company.

Ms Mytton, who organised the tree, told BBC Radio Wales Drive that the village was flooded with offers to help after the first lights disappeared.

Trefechan's Christmas was left looking barren after its lights were stolen

"I had people coming up to me who got really emotional about it, because it's the first time we've had these lights.

"We received a donation from B&Q, as well as many offers from many people," she said.

"People felt really down that someone could do this with a few days until Christmas, and the fact we've been able to turn it around with kind donations is incredible - everyone is feeling a big sigh of relief."

While it is still a mystery who stole the lights, she hopes the thieves will leave the replacements as they are.

"No names have come forward, we have tried CCTV but sadly they've got away with it, but I hope they leave it alone now," she added.

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