The first Christmas Tree Festival in aid of the Fishermen’s Mission is being held at Helston's Central Methodist Church this week.

Fifty local businesses, schools, groups, associations are all sponsoring a real Christmas tree and decorating it themselves in their own unique way. The trees will be on show from the official grand opening by Mayor Gillian Geer which takes place at 9am on Wednesday, November 23. The trees will be on display until Saturday, November 26, between 9am and 5pm, except Friday when the opening time will be extended until 9pm, as the town celebrates the switching on of the Christmas lights. Entry to the festival is free and refreshments are available.

“On behalf of the church congregation, we are looking forward to welcoming the many groups from Helston who are going to decorate their trees," said the Rev Danny Reed. "We are also delighted that this is a fun way of fundraising that contributes towards the vital work of the Fishermen’s Mission. We are always mindful of the dangers that fishermen have to face at sea but especially now, during the hard winter months."

Mel King, manager of the Fishermen's Mission charity shop in Helston, added: "Everyone is looking forward to seeing the trees decorated and soaking up the atmosphere during the festival. The Fishermen’s Mission delivers emergency response and welfare help to active and retired fishermen and their families. This work can only be delivered through on-going donations so we’re delighted with the response from the community and especially to all at Central Methodist Church for hosting this special event.”