Christmas tree fetes raise funds
TWO village communities held successful Christmas tree festivals at the weekend.
Visitors from across the Staffordshire Moorlands and from further afield visited both the villages of Onecote and Bradnop for the events.
St Luke’s Church in Onecote was the location of the Christmas tree festival, while the village hall was the home of a craft fair on Sunday.
The theme of the festival was Peace to commemorate the ending of World War One.
All the trees were decorated by members of the community and included War horse, land girls, war time pictures and letters and war time Christmas.
The festival started on Friday night when the Christmas tree lights were switched on.
There were carols around an outside tree with mulled wine and mince pies served. Santa then arrived to give out presents for the children.
One of the organiser’s, Janet Stone, said: “We received a good turnout of visitors for the festival. The craft fair was also busy on Sunday
“We are hoping to make around £500 for the church funds.” In Bradnop the community also received an excellent turnout of visitors.
The trees were all decorated by local organisations.
Organisers are hoping that more than £1,000 will be made which will go towards the upkeep of the village hall.
There was also a craft and cake stall along with tombola, raffle, games and refreshments for people to enjoy.
Chairman of the village Hall, Norman Ainsworth said: “It was an excellent event and very busy. We has a very good turnout of visitors and it was well supported.
“The event brings people together. We are hoping that more than £1,000 has been raised for the village hall.”