The festival began on the Friday evening, when mulled wine and mince pies were served as people enjoyed the sight and smell of real Christmas trees in the darkened church. The church was open on Saturday and Sunday, with background music provided by church organists and pianists, as well as by Linton Community College music students. Lunches and teas were served in the Infant School Hall on the Saturday, with a stall run by the Friends of St Mary's, a tombola and bottle stall, and other stalls selling books, plants, cakes and bric-a-brac. Teas with homemade cakes were served in the pavilion on Sunday afternoon.
Christmas Tree Festival 2008
On the weekend of 12th-14th December St Mary's held its first Christmas Tree Festival. 22 individuals, families, church, school and community groups from within Linton and neighbouring parishes were each provided with a tree (generously donated by Tereza Votra Jewellery). These were lit and decorated with a Christmas carol theme.
A number of families gathered for festive readings and the joyful singing of the carols which had provided the themes for the decorated trees at the end of Sunday afternoon, the conclusion of the festival.
All agreed that this new venture had been a great success, bringing together many friends within and around Linton to share in the various activities. Watch this space for next year's event!
