Upton upon Severn's display of Christmas trees returns for 2023

Christmas trees have taken over the land around the Pepperpot, which is also known as the Old Church Yard.

The trees are designed and installed by Upton shopkeepers, businesses and voluntary organisations for residents and visitors to enjoy.

This year the display opened on November 20 and runs until January 8.

The trees are on display until January (Image: Ruth Etheridge)

The project started in 2020 and was originally the idea of Rev Amy Wearing, of Upton Baptist Church, who wanted a Covid-safe Christmas activity for the town.

It has now become a festive tradition and the avenue of trees goes from strength to strength each year.

Among the trees this year is one from the RSPCA shop in Old Street.

The charity shop was involved back in 2020 with ‘baubles of love’, encouraging people to ‘Remember Special Pets at Christmas Always’.

“Then in 2021 we did ‘superstars’ for pets, friends and generally anyone that you wanted to hang a star for,” said Ruth Etheridge.

“Last year we were unable to do it, which prompted the Robin theme for 2023 - Robins of Remembrance.

Trees are created and decorated by organisations from around the town (Image: Ruth Etheridge)

“We’ve all lost so many people/family/pets in the last couple of years and there’s a saying ‘robins appear when loved ones are near’.

“This year, hang a robin on our tree for someone you’ve lost, or a pet, or even someone who is far away, to have them here in a little spot in Upton that you can visit.

“You can message me on Facebook or pop into the RSPCA shop in Old Street to order a robin and we will personalise it and hang it on the tree on the Pepperpot.

“Each Robin is £1 and every penny goes to The Holdings, our animal centre in Kempsey.”

The Pepperpot in Church Street was repaired to its former glory in 2021 and houses Upton Heritage Centre, featuring information boards and artefacts from the town’s past.