Inkberrow Couple’s 50ft Christmas Tree Ready for Annual Lighting Ceremony

The owners of a substantial Christmas tree, which has gained popularity as a community attraction, have expressed gratitude to the public for their ongoing charitable contributions during the yearly lighting event. Avril and Chris Rowlands planted this tree, now measuring 50ft, in the front garden of their Inkberrow residence, close to Worcester, having acquired it from a local garden centre in 1978. Approximately 200 attendees are anticipated for the lights switch-on event, scheduled for 18:30 GMT, during which the tree will be illuminated by 1,000 lights. According to Mrs. Rowlands, the yearly gathering has generated over £25,000 for various charitable organizations since it began. Ms. Rowlands stated that funds collected from this year’s event are designated for donation to the Midlands Air Ambulance. “Last year we raised £800 on the night in cash,” she added. “It’s all quite a major operation and in January, it’s all got to be done in reverse.” The tree, which significantly surpasses the height of nearby houses, is adorned annually with the aid of a cherry-picker to access its uppermost branches. The illuminations will remain active throughout the Christmas season until January 6th, at which point the decorations will be removed and stored for the following year. “It just takes your breath away,” Mr Rowlands said of the tree. She mentioned that the switch-on festivities would additionally include fireworks and refreshments. For certain villagers, “It’s the start of their Christmas,” she added. “People are coming now that say they remember seeing the lights as a child and now they are bringing their child.” “It’s festive. People really appreciate it.”