THE Gazette is this week launching a campaign calling for a Christmas tree to be installed on the village green.

The wheels are in motion on our Tree For Harefield campaign, and it has already secured the backing of several Harefield villagers.

In recent years the village has lacked any substantial Christmas decorations. By contrast, nearby Ickenham has a large, lit-up tree every year.

Harefield councillor Henry Higgins has already pledged his support and says he is the man who can help make it happen.

Speaking to the Gazette last week he said: "Let's do it; it's a good idea. It should not be too much of a problem to get a tree. We just have to see how to decorate it."

Funding for the tree would be available through a new annual ward budget, which paid for the hanging baskets in the High Street.

The plan also has the backing of Harefield Academy, in Northwood Way, with senior teaching staff offering support. Pauline Crawley, chair-woman of the Harefield Tenants' and Residents' Association, said: "It would be a lovely idea. We have discussed it in previous years but nothing was done about it."

Councillor Higgins added that he was looking into securing a permanent fixture to hold the tree, meaning it would not just be a one off but could be provided every Christmas.

Atul Sodha, who runs Londis, in Moorhall Road, Harefield, said: "I think it is a brilliant idea. I'm up for it - we need to get as much support for the idea as possible.

"In truth I'd like to see two trees, one in the south of the village as well."

The biggest threat to the plan could be health and safety Grinches, who might scupper the plans if any lighting is deemed to be unsafe.

However, innovative ways of decorating the tree are being looked into. [

* To pledge your support for A Tree For Harefield visit harefield. uxbridgegazette.com or email dancoombs@trinitysouth.co.uk.

WE SAY: It is high time a little festive light and cheer was brought into the heart of Harefield. What simpler and more traditional way to do this than with a Christmas tree, ageold symbol of the festive season, shining a beacon of peace and goodwill to all?

This tree would be everybody's to decorate, look after and enjoy.