AWARD-winning Taunton Farmers’ Market has sponsored the county town's Christmas tree in front of the Market House.

The group's chairman Graeme Wallace said: "We are extremely pleased to be able to show our thanks to fellow Tauntonians, by sponsoring the 2016 Christmas tree.

"This is our way of saying we are proud to be part of this town and to thank all who support us each and every Thursday throughout the year.”

Since 1999 Taunton Farmers’ Market has been bringing quality local food and drink into Taunton High Street every Thursday from 9am to 3pm.

Mr Wallace added: “It was important to us that we worked with a local grower to supply the tree to Taunton’s town centre, so we were delighted when Langford Lakes were able to work with us to supply a majestic 29 foot Nordman Fir, planted in 1996.”

Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm is a 40-acre farm located a mile outside Langford Budville.

The Hendy family has been growing and selling Christmas trees for more than 20 years.

Mr Wallace said: "As a special addition this year, the tree has been adorned with beautiful stars all handmade by GoCreate and local children during TauntonLive for local charity Stand against Violence’s Constellation Project in 2015 to mark 10 years since the tragic death of Lloyd Fouracre .

“We are very grateful to Andrew Hopkins and Craig Stone from Taunton Deane Borough Council’s Taunton Visitor Centre, who have been instrumental in coordinating all three of our organisations to create this symbolic coming together of the community in one Christmas tree.

"We hope all of Taunton enjoys a merry Christmas and a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.”

Langford Lakes has also donated trees to Wellington and Wiveliscombe.