Joy at Beccles church's 20th anniversary of Christmas Tree Festival

The Hungate Christmas Tree festival in Beccles was launched by Brenda Sigworth and fellow members of the church two decades ago, with the event leaving a "very warm feeling”. 

The organiser said: “I am very proud, but also very surprised that we are here running the event still 20 years on.  

Gillian Pretty at the 20th Beccles Christmas Tree festival (Image: Denise Bradley)

"We take pleasure in hosting the event for people.

"It gives me so much joy and a very warm feeling. 

"As people come through the door you can see the expectation in people's eyes turn to mesmerisation at the splendour of the glistening Christmas lights and the explosion of colour.” 

The event is organised by a team from the church, many of who have been helping Mrs Sigworth right from the beginning. 

Church treasurer, Colin Arnott, with the Beccles Community Hub tree made from the Jubilee bunting, in the 20th Beccles Christmas Tree Festival. (Image: Denise Bradley)

Mrs Sigworth said: “It is something very special to the town and we feel a responsibility to make sure we continue for the town. 

“There are lots of us who have been involved for 20 years, and we have recruited newer members and hope the event can continue.” 

Chris Pyburn, who has been a member at Hungate Church in Beccles for almost 20 years, said: “For so many people in the community the event is seen as the start of their Christmas. 

“The spectacle of colour here is amazing, seeing the happiness on faces is really rewarding. 

“The community comes together, people unite, come for a chat, a catch up over a tea or coffee, appreciate the designs and decorations. 

“The atmosphere is totally pleasant, welcoming and lovely.” 

The organiser explained that the entry fee of £2 for adults gets donated towards various charities. 

She said: "For a very small entrance charge we can support so many charities.

"The support we get from the people of the town is astonishing, and we couldn’t do it without the lovely people of Beccles and surrounding areas. 

"This year I have been impressed by creator's use of recycling in their designs, recycling is so important as the environmental issues intensify and pose a threat to our world,” Mrs Sigworth added. 

Volunteers, Val Lewis, left, and Jill Winslade, with one of the trees in the 20th Beccles Christmas Tree Festival. (Image: Denise Bradley)