Local Councillor Craig Morgan, whose recent outburst at critics of the Ross-on-Wye Christmas tree, including the use of a social media term which many found offensive, returned to the tree to make improvements to the town’s festive centrepiece.

Councillor Morgan, along with Councillor Richard Mayo, gave the base of the tree a trim which has resulted in a much improved appearance. In fact many local residents have said how pleased they are with the lights in Ross this year.

Craig made national news with his rant against people complaining about the tree and the lights in the centre of Ross. The tree, which is in the Market Place, was donated by a charity, the Rotary Club, and Craig, along with other Councillors, helped oversee the members of the Fire Service who put the lights on the tree.

Cllr Morgan explained that he took on the task of directing the placement of the lights. He said:?“ I was the person who on the day, was calling the shots of where they went on the tree. Not the Council, me alone, so any expressions of concern regarding placement on there please aim them at me direct!”

And he added:?“If anyone fancies doing it themselves next year then please do get in touch and I’ll put your name forward.”

The Clerk for Ross Town Council told the Ross Gazette that the Christmas tree was supplied by an Agent of Usk Castle Estates. She said:?“They normally prefer the customer to come and look at the tree before it is felled as they don’t like cutting down trees unless it’s what the customer wants and is happy with. The Agent had a choice of approximately a dozen trees, all grown specifically as town centre trees. Prices vary greatly depending on the size. This year the Rotary Club made the initial contact with the Agent to reserve a tree and I believe the price of £325.00 was agreed at that time.”

The Events Committee will need to agree, when it meets next, how to proceed with any proposals between the Agent and the Council as a result of the complaint that has been raised about the quality of the tree.”

Cllr Morgan also used social media to share the news that he and his wife, Cath, are moving from Orles Barn Hotel in the New Year. Craig told the Ross Gazette:?“We had to give three months notice, it is not a result of the fuss about the tree. Craig said:?“With Cath carrying our second child, and various other things regarding the hotel, we have decided it is time for us to move on. We have been at Orles Barn 2.5 years and have loved every minute of it. It’s taught us to be stronger people and the experience we have gained has been outstanding.” Craig added that their last day at Orles Barn will be December 31st, 2017.