NOW in its third year, the Christmas Tree Festival at Sandford Congregational Church next month, will feature a display of 28 decorated trees.

With a theme “Step into Christmas” the festival will run from Thursday, December 10 until Saturday, December 12.

Many village organisations and businesses will decorate trees including Sandford Spirits, Good Companions, Sandford School and Playgroup, the Sunflowers after school club, tennis club, parish council, St Swithun’s Church and handbell ringers, Summerhayes Residential Care Home, Sandford Orchards, Dave Totterdell, the Community Stores, Meadowside Garage and many more.

There will be various stalls, a raffle and refreshments will be available every day between 12 noon and 6pm.

On the Saturday, from 12 noon to 2pm there will be a Children’s Crafts session with Adrian Wyatt and it is hoped there will be a visit from Father Christmas.

On Sunday, December 13 a Traditional Carol Service will bring the weekend to a close with refreshments of mulled wine and mince pies to follow.

Last year’s Tree Festival raised £800 for the Congregational Church renovations.