SPARKLING Christmas trees filled a Launceston church end to end during their recent festival.

Now a firm fixture in St Mary Magdalene Church’s calendar, having taken place each December for the last seven years, and the church’s major fundraiser, the festival of cribs and Christmas trees ran from December 2 to 10.

This year money donated totalled £3,500, which goes towards keeping the 500-year-old Grade 1 listed church in good repair. Their greatest expense at the moment is repayment of a loan granted for the new heating system installed at the end of 2016.

During the festival, a warm welcome greeted those entering the church, when more than 70 Christmas trees and 15 nativity cribs were on display in all parts of the building.

Visitors gasped with delight on entering into the magical setting and were amazed by the ingenuity of exhibits on display ranging from delicate nativity crib scenes to 6ft trees covered with a variety of hand-made decorations and sparkling lights.

Some eye-catching ‘alternative trees’ were constructed from cardboard, motor parts and lampshades! Mid-week, TV’s Spotlight filmed the bustling scene of visitors admiring the tree-decorators’ skills.

There is a waiting list for those wishing to take part in the future. Over the years support from churches, schools, pre-schools, charities and companies has been very welcome and grateful thanks were expressed to all those taking part and the team who help with organising and running the festival.