Tree-rection!

Once again, it is that time of year when Rotary pulls together to bring a little light to the darkest months by installing and illuminating our much-loved community Christmas tree. Even on the greyest of winter days, this moment marks the start of something special, a visible reminder of warmth, generosity, and togetherness, as we prepare to welcome Santa to town and share in the joy of the season.

The day begins early, very early. While most of the community is still enjoying their first cup of tea, our intrepid team is already in action from around 7:00 a.m., Chris Forkan, Stuart Walker,

coordinating logistics at the roundabouts and ensuring the tree’s safe arrival and precise positioning. This is no small operation, and it relies on teamwork, planning, and good humour in equal measure.

Behind the scenes, the process begins a full year in advance. Once the trees reach the right stage of maturity, the team carefully identifies the one lovingly grown especially for Rotary. After being felled (not always gently, given its impressive size and weight), the tree is expertly hoisted onto a lorry and transported to Banstead. There, a rather impressive piece of specialist equipment performs its magic, lifting the tree once more and guiding it into position, usually accompanied by animated and highly professional debate over which side of the tree is actually “the front.” Roger, David, Suzanne all manually ensuring support and safety, from years of experience and expertise they fill up and bulk up the tree accordingly, Richard Clark has the joy of dangerously climbing equivalent of two stories high to ensure alignment and balance.

Weather gods permitting, we hope to raise approximately £18,000 this year, with all proceeds supporting local charities and youth groups that play such a vital role in helping our community thrive.

Once the hard work is done, everyone is invited to gather for well-earned refreshments, coffee, tea, and truly excellent bacon butty sandwiches, lovingly prepared by Jo and David (largely Jo, to whom we are extremely grateful).

If you enjoy hands-on projects, machinery, engineering, or simply being part of something that brings genuine joy to the community, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with Roger, Chris, or David and join us in creating a little seasonal magic that lights up Banstead and brings us all together.

JOIN US!