Church tree festival a ‘great success’

Held over three days from December 9 to 11, the rural church of The Holy Sepulchre in Park Lane at Warminghurst was decked out with 16 trees decorated by different groups and organisations from the local community.

Schools taking part this year were St Mary’s in Washington, Ashington CofE, Storrington First School and Rydon Community College.

Other participants involved were Storrington District Museum, Vintage Rose Cafe in Storrington, the Thakeham Bellringers in partnership with the White Lion Pub, Andrew Jenkins Podiatry in Storrington, and Ashington’s Butteryfly Cupcakes with Cherubs.

Chairman of the Friends, Rachel Webster, said: “The sight was breathtaking on entering this small church with lights and themed decorations, each tree providing interest for the many visitors who came through the door.”

Alongside the trees the Friends of Warminghurst sold Christmas goods on a stall with a raffle, with prizes donated by local businesses. There was also carol and Christmas readings.

Rachel said: “It was a very happy event and one visitor remarked enthusiastically that she had never been in such a beautiful church.”

Rachel said she wanted to thank those who sponsored the event including: Toovey’s Auctioneers, Big Plant Nursery Ashington, Ashington Autos, Village Flair Ashington, the David Wilson Homes Meiros Development, Thirteen Restaurant Storrington, Henry Adams lettings, and Heath’s of Horsham.