A CHRISTMAS tradition which had come under threat has been saved, thanks to Darwen Town Council.

As reported in the Lancashire Telegraph, the decorating of the market hall Christmas tree by disabled children from across the borough could have been scrapped next year, after funding was pulled.

The event, organised by cancer fundraiser Caitlin Jones 10 times over the past 11 years, has become a cherished tradition and sees the children decorate the tree, enjoy a visit from Santa and then eat a free breakfast at The Bridgewater pub, in Church Street.

But after hearing the event could be cancelled, Sudell councillor Paul Browne stepped in and urged the town council to foot the bill to keep the event on the calendar in future.

At a meeting of Darwen Town Council he said: “Caitlin Jones and her mum, Tracy, do such a terrific job I was wondering if we could step in and support them.

“We do support a lot of people for things and I do not think it is going to break the bank.”

And after meeting with town council deputy chairman Coun Trevor Maxfield, Tracy Jones said she was delighted.

She said: “We were at first a little concerned they were trying to come in and take it over, which would have upset Caitlin.

“But they just want to help so if we can’t raise the money ourselves, they will fund it.

“It is absolutely fantastic news for us. Caitlin is overjoyed.

“She never expects something for nothing so she will try to raise the cash herself.

“But if she can’t quite manage it, it is good to know the council will step in and they have promised to continue that help in future years.”