ALTON’S Parish of the Resurrection Christmas Tree Festival, held in St Lawrence Church on December 9-10, was deemed the biggest and best so far, with 60 Christmas trees and nativity scenes on show.

The festival has become an established event in the town drawing people from all walks of life and ages, building links between the church and the community.

The event was opened by Alton mayor Dean-Paul Phillips and Andrew Micklefield, the vicar of St Lawrence.

Speaking on behalf of the event organisers, Elaine Cook said: “We had some new supporters this year to add to our growing list, including the Boys and Girls’ Brigade, Alton Allotments, Make My Day florist, Treloar College nursery and Redemptorist Publications.”

The Memory Tree from Kemp and Stevens provided a quiet focus in the side chapel for those who miss loved ones at this time of year, giving an opportunity to write their name on a dove and hang it on the tree. This tree will remain in the church until the New Year and people are free to add names.

Elaine added: “As always, the church looked beautiful and seasonal music was provided by several of our local talented organists and also the Alton Covenant Youth choir.”

The festival was well attended over the two days by visitors whose generosity raised £730 in donations, to be divided between the Anna Chaplaincy, serving elderly residents in Alton, and the Epoulbass Foundation in Cameroon, which enables village girls to have access to a sewing machine to earn an independent living.

The organisers of the Christmas Tree Festival have expressed “a huge thank you” to all those traders, organisations and visitors who supported the event, and with it “a very Happy Christmas to you all”.