Woolpit welcomes return of festival of decorated trees after seven-years
Decorated Christmas trees lined Woolpit’s St Mary’s Church for a festival at the weekend.
Village organisations, clubs, residents and businesses contributed their festive offerings, with visitors invited to ‘vote’ for their favourite by making donations in collection pots under each of the 25 entries.
Mary Hughes, who organised the event with Jennifer Baker, said a ‘steady flow’ of visitors enjoyed the event.
“It was lovely. Lots of the older villagers came out, some of whom have been isolating. It was a joyous thing,” said Mary.
It was the first festival of decorated trees in Woolpit since 2014.
“We did it for several years but after 2014 we had a rest. We thought now was the right time to do it again, we thought after the lockdowns it was what the village needed,” said Mary.
A tree decorated by the village’s Teacups café won the most votes, with its teacup and cake decorations proving a hit.
“The school also did a nice tree and the children had written their wishes and thoughts,” said Mary.
As well as Christmas trees, the church’s windowsills boasted touching displays of hearts for the NHS, made and decorated by villagers.
“People had crocheted, knitted, made them from paper and even wicker.
“We would like to thank everybody who supported us. My friend Jennifer and I organised it but we had support from the whole village,” added Mary.
Refreshments were available, while a raffle was also held. Entry cost £2.50, with accompanied under-12s free.
Carols closed the festival on Sunday.
All proceeds went to the church.
