MALMESBURY charity HEALS is urging members of the public to help decorate its Christmas tree, and in the process raise much needed cash for struggling local families this winter.

The community group has taken delivery of a six foot tree which takes pride of place in the window of its High Street headquarters.

It is slowly beginning to twinkle with colourful stars thanks to the generosity of people who are buying them to adorn the tree.

HEALS spokesperson Alison Cross-Jones said: “It’s a lovely tree and we want to see it covered in stars over the next few weeks.”

The stars come in four colours: white which can be bought for £3.50, red (£5), silver (£8) and gold (£12).

Mrs Cross-Jones said: “People are already popping in to buy the stars and decorate the tree. One person bought all four stars.” Alternatively, people can buy the stars online.

Mrs Cross-Jones said the HEALS Christmas Stars Appeal would assist the needy in a variety of ways, such as helping them pay winter fuel bills.

She said: “We are aiming to ensure that no one in the community suffers this winter. In previous years we've seen how fuel poverty and being homeless where people sofa surf or sleep in cars can adversely affect their health and mental well-being.”

Further information on the appeal: Christmas Wishes Appeal 2015's appeal page