A COMMUNITY has bounced back from its Christmas tree being vandalised earlier this year.

Mosley Common residents were outraged in May when the top of the tree, which stands at Village Green, was ripped off.

Organisation Mosley Common in Bloom MCIB) set up a crowdfunding page, and with the help of residents and ward councillors, a new tree was planted in the summer.

The new tree was the focal point of the village's Christmas lights switch-on event on Saturday, November 24, which included a funfair and a host of stalls selling a range of festive gifts such as crafts.

Stilt walker and fire eater, Sallie from Wolf Entertainments, added to the carnival atmosphere.

Coronation Street's Andrew Whyment, who plays Kirk, stepped in to cover for Santa to keep the children amused.

The Ellenbrook and Boothstown Brass Band and singer Terry Dean performed on the day too.

An inflatable pub, DJ entertainment, a giant snowglobe, Santa;s grotto and reindeer were all big hits with visitors too.

Speeches were made by MCIB vice-chairwoman Louise Cook, Reverend Julian Hartley, of St John’s Church, and councillor Barry Taylor.

Martha and Thomas from Holy Family School read part of the Christmas story.

Children Olivia and James, who won the draw for the important job of throwing the switch for the lights, carried out the important task.

MCIB chairwoman Maxine Abberley said: "We would like to thank all the MCIB volunteers who made the event happen, all those who donated towards the replacement of the Christmas tree and everyone who entertained here and organised it.

"I would also of course like to thank the people who took time out to come to this great community event.

"All together we made this a fabulous, memorable event.

"Mosley Common certainly didn’t let the vandals win."