Oh Christmas Tree!

The Dereham Christmas Lights Switch On was cancelled [due to Storm Bert] but the Tree Festival was up and running in the Parish Church. We popped down after lunch to have a look. It is the first time they have done one of these. I am not sure if I saw every tree, they were arranged all over the church, and sadly there was no site plan, numbering or clear labelling. There were a few trees which gave very little clue as to who had made them, and others which seemed to have no clear theme identifying their origins. But a clear collaborative effort across the town.

There were trees from local charities, local businesses,and community groups. I liked the Dementia Golf Tree [decorated golf balls and tees] and the LitterPickers and Refill Shop [all made from recycled stuff]

 Quite a few trees [including two local undertakers] inviting you to write the name of a loved one and tie it on. I didn't photograph them all

But on the whole, many people had made a lot of effort. And the refreshments were good, if a little pricey [£2 for a cup of instant coffee seems a lot to me!] - maybe I am too used to Nonconformist catering...

I filled in the questionnaire, which a gentleman was handing out to those of us drinking our tea. That was mainly about the use of the building in general [Bob and I agreed that the plans for a kitchenette and toilets on site were good ones] and mentioned the labelling issue to the chap, who said that was a very good suggestion!

Here's the Hospital Tree. Ann and Carol had worked hard with pill-bottle lights, the patients' coloured baubles, and other card baubles with finger prints and names of all staff members

Finally the Mothers' Union Tree. Crosses for their Christian Heritage, my little books, mini duvets for their "bedding packs" and parcels for their "care packages" [both for newly housed people who were previously homeless]

Pauline, if you are reading this, I hope your Festival in Dorset is successful - can you send a couple of ladies up to Norfolk to give these folk some hints and tips?

Have you seen any innovative trees at festivals near you?