A VILLAGE near Ludlow is preparing to celebrate the Christmas tree.

In Caynham, preparations are well underway for the Seventh annual Christmas Tree Festival, at St Mary’s Church.

Each year the festival is set around a particular theme and this year, the theme of the festival is “Christmas Poems”.

On Saturday and Sunday of December 1 and 2, the Church will be open from 10 am till 4 pm. Entry is free.

The organisers say that there will be at least 12 different Christmas tress on display for people to enjoy.

There will be hot drinks, mince pies and cake available, as well as a Christmas Stall, a Raffle and Tombola.

The history of the association of trees goes back many years and has even been linked to pagan times when trees were worshipped. At the time of the winter solstice there was also a festival to keep the sun from going away.

In more recent times the decoration of tress as part of Christmas celebrations has been dated back to 16th century Germany.

As usual, there will be a Concert on the Saturday evening, starting at 7.30 pm, given this year by “The Britten Singers”. Tickets £6 Adults and £3 Children.

On Sunday all will be very welcome, to come to a Christingle Service in Church, starting at 3 pm.

Call Jill Bufton on 01584 876900 or Chris King 01584 876819 for more information or to book.