THE FESTIVE feeling is thriving at Redditch’s St Stephen’s Church now its annual Christmas Tree Festival has got under way.
A total of 32 real 6ft Christmas trees have been provided by the church to be decorated by businesses, charities, schools and community groups across the borough.
The stunning displays all reflect this year’s festival theme of ‘Hope-Light Shines in the Darkness’ and have already gathered huge attention and admiration with thousands of visitors coming to take a look.
Festival visitors will be asked to vote for their favourite tree by making donations with every group or charity taking part receiving the cash donated to their entry.
There will be a special prize donated to the group with the most popular tree.
Last year’s Christmas Tree Festival saw over £350 raised for local charities.
Elaine Whitfield, from St Stephen’s, said: “Everyone has thoroughly enjoyed the experience so far and we’ve had so many comments saying how wonderful the church looks.
“Last Saturday on our opening day people were queuing just to catch a glimpse and we’ve already had enquiries about people sponsoring a tree next year.
“To see the people of Redditch enjoying the church like this just makes my heart sing – it’s absolutely wonderful.”
