A CHRISTMAS tree will be erected in Grays town centre for the first time in years following a donation by Skanska.
The firm, who are building the £45million South Essex College town centre campus, have provided the town with a 20 foot tree.
As in recent years, a tree will go up on the grounds of St Peter and St Paul's Church but this year, a tree will also be put up in the town centre.
Leader of the council and local Grays councillor, John Kent, said: "This is great news. Grays town centre hasn't had a Christmas tree for at least seven years and I'm really grateful to Skanska for their generous Christmas gift."
Paul Heather, managing director for Skanska, added: "Our association with Grays has always been more than just building a college, it's also about the community around the college.
"We are delighted to contribute our own bit of festive cheer to Grays with the Christmas tree and lights for the benefit of everyone in the town."
The college campus building is set to be completed next year and should be ready to take its first students in September.
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