RAYLEIGH has a new town centre Christmas tree, thanks to the efforts of Rotarians.

It has taken six months to agree the right kind of tree with local councils, but now the Atlas cedar is finally in place outside Holy Trinity Church, in the High Street.

Rayleigh Mill Rotary Club's Carl Watson, who is also chairman of the local chamber of trade, said: "We have met with many obstacles in our quest to secure this tree, but have managed to work closely with the town council and district councils to solve many of the issues. We think we have done our homework and hope the tree will become a permanent addition to the High Street. We had to look at issues such as projected growth and its upkeep."

It replaces an ailing tree donated by the Royal British Legion.

The church will use the tree as the focus for its remembrance light a light service and it will be lit up for Christmas when the festive illuminations are turned on, on November 29.