ALTON’S historic St Lawrence Church had an added sparkle when it was filled with 55 Christmas trees, all decorated by contributors who ranged from individuals and community groups to the church choir and bellringers, as well as one from Sainsbury’s.

Each was decorated with symbols representing the owner, the retailers’ ones were more commercial, and organisers Elaine Cook and Jenny Thompson said it was the most successful they have held since the first Christmas Tree Festival six years ago.

The glittering array of lights and sparkling ornaments, plus some of the ingenious decorations, attracted large crowds of visitors on the two days it was held and raised more than £500, which will go to community projects supported by the church.