WEM has once again marked the beginning of the festive period by putting up the Christmas trees.

The town typically celebrates Christmas with a full lights switch-on an festival, with homegrown comedian Greg Davies usually making an appearance.

But with the coronavirus continuing to have an impact on day-to-day life, Wem has settled for just putting up the tree this year.

Two trees have appeared in the town, one on the Church Green and the Tree of Light on Jubilee Square.

The trees were donated once again by Steve Jones of Winston Farm, Christmas trees, Reindeer and Holiday Lodges of Ellesmere and were transported to Wem for free by Allan and Chris Rowlands.

Carl Corvers, David Boddy and former mayor Peter Broomhall then helped put the trees up in their current locations.

Liz Broomhall, from Wem Christmas Lights Festival, thanked all those who have helped bring some much-needed festive cheer to the town.

"This year by way of kind donations of local businesses Chris Roberts fabrications, Hawk Developments, Trevor Pye Transport, Wem Rotary Club and Wrekin Housing we have secured a three-year lease on one 'over the road' light fitting by the Wem Town hall and three lamppost lights on Mill Street, Aston Street and New Street," said Liz

"As usual thanks go to Wem Town Council and Wem Rural Council who have contributed for the trees and lights to be put up in High Street above shops.

"Thank you to Mr Maddocks and team for putting the trees up and Carl for adding lights and for his endless devotion.

"Our small committee continues but we are extremely saddened by the loss of our treasurer Christine Murray. She will be most sadly missed and our thoughts are with John Murray.

"We will encourage shops to dress their windows and will award prizes for the best in December, date to be confirmed.

"Hopefully you will still be able to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas and his sleigh with Wem Rotary Club and please follow Wem Xmas Trail 2020 on Facebook.

"Even though we will miss the annual Wem Christmas Lights and Festival, we continue to brighten up this lovely town for the festive period."