A large crowd gathered at the Village Hall on Monday to witness the switching on of the Christmas tree lights at New Hedges.

Afterwards, chairman of St. Mary out Liberty Community Council, Clr. Des Brace, expressed his thanks to a number of people for their help, including Mr. Gerald Brace, BBs, for donating the tree; Mr. Dennis Reed, Mr. Dave Mitchell and Mr. Andrew Brace for donating the mulled wine and mince pies; Rev. Nigel Griffin for prayers for Christmas; Mrs. Alwen Hughes for organ playing for a lovely Christmas carol service; and Mrs. Christine Butland and her lady helpers for serving the mince pies and mulled wine.