A light now shines on the tree by St Margaret's church in memory of the mayor's mother-in-law Margaret Walker, who died of cancer in March.

The Royal Leamington Rotary Club's project is raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and Cllr Smart and his wife can relate to the charity's work after their loss.

Cllr Smart said: "If it brings a light into somebody else's life and if you can make life easier for them, then all the better.

"It is sad to lose somebody but if you can help improve the lives of other people then that is a good way to remember a relative.

"Trees of Light are a good idea - the one in Whitnash becomes part of the town and people do miss their loved ones most during Christmas and on birthdays."

Over the last eight years the Rotary Club has raised tens of thousands of pounds for good causes.

This year's campaign was launched last month and organisers have said they have been pleased with the amount of donations they have received despite the recession.

The Leamington tree is by the town hall.

Cllr Smart said it was an honour to switch on the tree in Whitnash. "It is a privilege for Whitnash to be able to have the tree. I've been told that we donate more than anywhere," he said.

"My motto for this campaign is 'people need to match their money with their dedications'."

Macmillan need at least £1 million each year to continue to provide support and advice for cancer patients and their families in Warwickshire, Coventry and Northampton-shire and this figure is rising.

Donations and dedications can be made using the form provided or in person at Leamington town hall or Whitnash town council's office in Franklin Road.

www.macmillan.org.uk