People enjoyed a bumper Christmas Tree Festival in Meldreth at the weekend, with around 40 trees of different themes exhibited over the two days.

Royston Crow: Anne Young, Theresa O’Malley, and Margaret Goddin, who have contributed to making the Festival a roaring success. Picture: Clive PorterAnne Young, Theresa O’Malley, and Margaret Goddin, who have contributed to making the Festival a roaring success. Picture: Clive Porter (Image: Archant)

Since it started 12 years ago, no less than 70 organisations have taken part in the festival at Holy Trinity Parish Church to raise funds for the Grade I-listed building.

Church Warden John Price said: “In daylight the detail of the trees and decorations can be seen as well as the ingenuity of the exhibitors and when dark it is a magical sight with sparkling trees lights augmented by candles around the church.”

The themes of the trees included remembrance, Nativity, and a tree decorated with children’s designs and quotes from parents who use support charity Home-Start,

Kneelers had stitched 49 individual kneelers which were displayed on the pews, with more planned.

The Allotments, a focus for keen vegetable growers, had a simple bamboo cane tree which ‘really stood out’ when the church was in the dark.

Cam Valley Crafts had a very detailed tree and surroundings with the theme of ‘At The Bottom Of The Garden.’

The Vegetable Club promote wildlife in the garden and this year had a stuffed fox and Bughouse nearby.

The Lacemakers had a white tree decorated with a theme of lace jewelled colours. Also the Beaders once again displayed ‘fascinating examples of miniature figures and shapes, many three or four centimetres high containing thousands of minute glass beads, and each year the River Mel Restoration Group exhibit a tribute to Wind in the Willows, and this year it was Ratty and Mole’s Christmas at home in their bungalow.

Soup lunches and afternoon teas were provided and craft items, made by ladies from Meldreth and Melbourn, were sold as well as cakes and preserves.

Bell ringers played Christmas music on Sunday, and a quiz was organised for children with clues around the church. Outside Noah the donkey and Truffles the Pony were a great attraction for the children. For more go meldrethchurch.org.uk.