Village branches out with smart new tree

newspapers and even television producers to talk about it.

She said: “It was quite sad because people donated that tree and I didn’t want to offend anybody by making fun of it.

“We just said we’ll try and do our best for the village this year.”

The weedy tree, located on a side verge in Church Street, sparked many complaints from residents who wanted a proper tree to raise their festive spirits.

The parish councillor and two other residents, Pam Dyson and Mike Wood, got together in the village’s White Horse pub and decided to do something to raise money for a cut tree from Kirklees Council.

Clr Kemp said: “Every other village around had one and three collecting jars were placed in the local pub, club and shop.

“Word soon got around and we were amazed at the substantial donations from individuals, families and local businesses.

“No longer would we have the ‘saddest Christmas tree in Huddersfield’ or make ‘The top 10 worst Christmas Trees in the UK.’

“It’s not going to be Oxford Street, it’s just our tree.

“For Emley and Emley Moor it’s lovely and we just wanted to make people happy.”

To celebrate, a special festive event has been organised for Friday evening from 7pm, where the new tree will be switched on and Santa and his elves will arrive by tractor.

Villagers have raised enough money this year to kick-start fundraising for next year’s Christmas tree.

In the meantime, the poorly tree will be replaced thanks to the generosity of local tree expert Andrew Schofield, who has offered to donate one and look after it.

Clr Kemp added: “As soon as we can get Kirklees to dig a hole it will go where we’re having the new tree now at Emley Cross.

“We just need to keep raising enough money to make sure we’re getting a tree we can call a tree while this one grows.” † Approximate uncooked patty weight 114g. Served in a brown bun. T&Cs apply. Hot drink can be exchanged for sparkling drink. Max 4 people per produced advert qualify for a free regular hot drink.