ST Mary the Virgin Church at East Worldham attracted more than 50 families who admired the exhibits on show at the annual Christmas Tree Festival.

There were more than 50 trees in the church, including more than 40 of all shapes and sizes contributed by families, groups and individuals from within the communities of East Worldham and West Worldham, many lit beautifully and decorated to the theme of ‘Christmas Songs and Nursery Rhymes’.

One of the organisers said: “Some very kind comments were received from the steady stream of visitors and one visitor was even moved to tears. The church looked fabulous, especially as the light was fading, making the tree lights shine more brightly.”

Additional events were organised over the weekend to complement the tree festival.

On the Saturday evening, many families gathered at the church to sing carols before walking around the village and singing in pre-arranged host houses. While on Sunday morning, more than 40 people attended a colourful Christingle service where the children received the traditional decorated oranges.

The church is currently fundraising toward the cost of repairing the church tower and over the weekend £1,000 was raised toward the Tower Fund.

When work started on the repairs, it was discovered that damage to the tower was more extensive than had previously been budgeted for and required additional repair work for rotting wood, bird damage and general deterioration.

The parochial church council took the decision in November to continue with the repairs despite the escalating costs, now anticipated to top £33,000.

The church council is currently seeking grants but is also undertaking a programme of fund raising, of which the Christmas Tree Festival was the first event.