A YOUNG girl from Bridgwater has been selected to open up a Christmas tree farm.

Tayen Gilbert, who suffers from Neurofibromatosis, was picked to open Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm in Langford Budville, near Wellington.

She will be cutting the ribbon at the farm to launch its Christmas shop on Saturday, November 17 at 10am.

Kali Gilbert, Tayen’s mum, said: “We’re thrilled that Tayen has been selected. She’s very excited. As a family we love Christmas and this will be a treat for all of us.

“I decided to nominate Tayen as she’s a little star. Tayen has a complex medical history and her genetic condition causes tumours to grow along nerves anywhere in the body. She was diagnosed at 22-months-old with tumours that have spread through her brain to the back. She started chemotherapy straight away but unfortunately lost all vision just six weeks into treatment.

“Tayen needed bilateral shunts to drain fluid on her brain. She also has complex epilepsy and is currently now on her third round of chemotherapy treatment. Tayen is a powerhouse of fun and energy and captures the hearts of everyone she meets.”

The Gilbert family has fundraised for various charities over the years. They also visit Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) at Charlton Farm, which is Langford Lakes’ Charity of the Year.

Reg Hendy from Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm, which is based at Middle Hill Farm, said: “We’re so pleased that Tayen will be helping us open our Christmas tree farm and shop for the festive season.

“She will be our VIP for the day and will also receive one of our British grown Christmas trees. We hope Tayen and her family have a fantastic morning with us kicking off the countdown to Christmas."

Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm is open every day from Saturday, November 17 until Saturday, December 23, 2018.