Guernsey’s Market Square Christmas Tree Elevated Following Public Feedback

A Christmas tree situated in Guernsey’s Market Square is being elevated onto a raised platform subsequent to numerous public grievances regarding its dimensions. Event organizers opted to adorn and exhibit a tree cultivated locally rather than importing one from the UK. Nevertheless, some islanders characterized it to the BBC as “small” and “disappointing.” Sonia Taylor, director of Bailiwick Estates Limited, which serves as the managing agent for the market buildings, stated: “It’s slightly disappointing it’s not as tall as the tree we had last year. However, we should accept that this tree was grown locally.” Father Christmas is scheduled to visit the island on Saturday for the annual Town lights switch-on event, where the tree typically serves as the focal point for a parade and various presentations. Yet, one individual informed the BBC that the tree was “disappointing compared to previous years.” Ms Taylor acknowledged that “the disappointment doesn’t go unnoticed,” leading organizers to have “decided to take it down, build a platform and raise the tree up.” Despite apprehensions that the tree’s smaller size was attributable to financial considerations, Ms Taylor affirmed that the “deciding factor” was to “keep it local” rather than sourcing one from the UK. She mentioned that UK trees were “30% to 40% more expensive than last year” but reiterated that this “wasn’t the deciding factor.” Roberto, a passerby, conveyed to the BBC: “It’s lovely to just see decoration… but it’s important for next year to improve.” Concurrently, islander Paulina remarked that the tree “lifts you a bit at a rubbish time of year.” Ms Taylor extended gratitude to the volunteers who contributed to making “the tree more visible.” Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.