Tree Fest marks re-fir-bishment end at village Methodist Church

Festive music, food and 32 imaginatively decorated trees and more was enjoyed by the many visitors who attended the third such event held at Boston Spa Methodist Church.

Spokesman Sue Jakeman said: “What a fantastic five-day festival we had.

“If the music enhances this event, the Trees are indeed the main event.

“We had 32 trees this year all decorated with such imagination and flare by local organisations, and businesses.

“The trees are fascinating in the daylight as you look at the inventiveness of those who have decorated them, but as dusk falls the whole atmosphere changes as the lights glow across all three floors of the building creating a very special atmosphere; this too was enhanced by the new lighting system installed in the church.”

The event was opened with a performance of Christmas songs by St Mary’s School Choir, to coincide with the late night shopping in the village. The church also had a festival cafe.

Also featured during the five days was Rex Stotte and his Wetherby U3A Ukulele Band, a lunchtime concert by Emma James, playing by organist John Townend and a first time appearance by Collingham Training Band.

Sue added: “The Festival was filled with music, laughter, good food, and celebrations on the Sunday with two Church services, one aimed at families; as we journeyed to Bethlehem during a lively interactive worship session. This was followed that evening by the Festival Carol Service.

“On both Friday and Saturday, I spoke to many people who had spent the whole day at the Festival, enjoying the music, the delicious food, and the wonderful trees.”

The church will next month officially mark its reopening following an extensive modernisation programme.

The Minister’s wife added: “Thank you to all who helped, not only during the Festival itself, but also in the cleaning and preparation of the building prior to opening.

“A big thank you, too, must go to the builders on site who helped in so many ways to make this event happen.

“But the biggest thanks of all must go to all who decorated the trees, and to all who came and enjoyed the trees and the special atmosphere created.”

She added that the festival will be back next year.