St Mary's second Christmas Tree Festival got off to a good start on Saturday with a steady stream of visitors through the day culminating in a surge of families at 5.30pm after Market House Lights had been switched on. This year, most of the 60 trees on display were provided by businesses in the town, charities and youth organisations and some of these had been kindly donated by Ross Garden Store.

On Sunday, coffee and christening cake were enjoyed amongst the trees after the morning service and during the afternoon a "Come and Sing" Messiah took place, followed by a concert in the evening. About 80 singers took part under the direction of Mark Sanderson, Director of Music at St Mary's and accompanied by Robert Green, a former assistant organist at Hereford Cathedral.

Tonight, Wednesday, at 7.30pm, Mark returns with the Voice Squad, a children's choir, who will be performing seasonal songs in a concert with Ross Town Band. Last year their concert was a huge success, receiving critical acclaim, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who went along.

The tree festival will be open today until 4.15pm and for tonight's concert when you will also be able to view the trees. The festival closes on Thursday at 1.00pm.