FOR the first time Whitstone had a village Christmas tree thanks to the community fund money which is allocated by the parish council.

About 85 people gathered at 6pm on December 23 and after a Christmas punch and welcome by Nick Furse, parish council chairman, they heartily joined in singing carols around the tree.

They were fortunate to have the musical accompan­iment of Derk Veale with his violin, Mike Whitehouse on guitar, Rachael and Jonathan Nancekivell-Smith both from London with their brass instruments. The children all gathered around the tree and sang Away in a Manger, one of the highlights on the evening.

This was followed by mince pies and drinks in the Sunday School which had been tastefully decor­ated for the event.

Thanks have been extended to everyone who helped in any way setting up the tree, making mince pies and punch then serving it: to their musicians but most of all to Roy Parker who set up the electrical supply that was needed and donated the power to keep the tree lit throughout the festive season. A great community get together which will hopefully become an annual event.