Christmas Tree Lighting - December 2025
JD Wood & Co. kindly sponsored Ben Comeau our key board musician again this year. A great feature to gather the wonderful voices of volunteers from the Barcarolle Choir who practice and perform at St. Cuthberts Church. Ably lead by the energetic Antonella Harrison to add sparkle to the occasion.
Their team that came so enjoy singing, they continued through most of the event, assisted by the coifing of Alan Malcolms now ‘FAMOUS’ mulled wine. Folks had a good time singing along, including the children who grow bigger and in good voice each year.
Bar the beautiful Christmas tree to gather around, the event wouldn’t be the same without Katrina’s homemade mince pies and Mariaclara’s freshly made cookies. A staple of the event, along with the mulled wine and hot chocolate drinks, I have to say, aren’t we spoilt!!
Another tasty offering again this year was from Mriya Neo Bistro restaurant who generously bring a savoury to hand around, to add to our culinary delights. They were giving us 20% off our bill at their restaurant for the rest of the season, being ‘locals.’ Generous indeed, for great food.
Talking of ‘delight’. Our Christmas tree was beautifully formed and lit up happy faces young and old. The decorations were the heads of dried plants which is original and the innovation worked well.
A big thanks to the ‘set-up team’ erecting and dismantling. The star performer was Mariaclara’s husband Stephane. His strength and practically really helped us lesser mortals.
We had the JD Wood & Co. double gazebo this year for the food and drink layout, as well as our smaller one for Ben and the choir and that was a helpful addition.
If one looks at a highlight, it was the smooth running and good cheer from all!
Sue Lupton