A GIANT Christmas tree is celebrating the festive season in Widnes.

The Pandora store in Green Oaks Shopping Centre hopes it will raise vital funds for Halton Haven Hospice.

Michael Aldridge, chief executive officer of Duncan Sexton Ltd, the company behind Pandora Widnes, said:“As we have now completed our first full year in Greenoaks, we wanted to celebrate by bringing something a bit different to the centre.

“The Christmas tree in the centre is always a beautiful addition and a real focal point, and it happens to be right outside our Pandora store. We thought it would be fun to sponsor the tree by decorating it with Pandora baubles, and running some in store promotions over the festive period.

“This also gives us the opportunity to raise some money for Halton Haven Hospice. This is such a wonderful charity and I hope we can raise some much needed funds for them over the next few weeks.”

Bucket collections will be held every weekend in December.

Chris Andrews, community fundraising manager for the hospice, said: “ We rely hugely on local people, businesses and communities to support us throughout the year and ensure we can cover the costs of running the hospice.

“Without the people of Halton who donate, raise funds and leave gifts in wills, the hospice wouldn’t be here and this vital palliative care service wouldn’t exist.

“Thank you so much to Pandora and everyone who contributes to the collections this Christmas.”