SANDFORD Congregational Church held its third Christmas Tree Festival in mid-December, which made a profit of £750 which will go towards church renovations.

With the theme “Step into Christmas” the festival saw 28 trees decorated by most village organisations and businesses 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.

During the three days there were various stalls, a raffle and refreshments and a craft session was held on the Saturday for the children and a welcome visit from Father Christmas.

The weekend ended with a Traditional Carol Service which was followed by refreshments of mulled wine and mince pies.

Organiser Marion Nosworthy told the Courier: “I would like to thank everyone who helped decorate the trees and gave donations towards the cost of lighting and heating in the church during the festival.

“Thank you also to all the village organisations and businesses who got involved and Andrew Wyatt who ran the children’s crafts session on the Saturday afternoon.”

Carol Furze