Panto theme for tree festival

Around 24 beautifully decorated trees filled the church.

As well as enjoying the tree, visitors bought gifts at the Christmas fair before relaxing for a hot lunch.

Throughout the weekend, there were performances by the Catsfield and Senlac group of handbell ringers.

Facing the challenge of this year’s ‘pantomime’ theme, the groups contributing trees excelled themselves with a wonderful display of creativity.

There was a beautiful part tree, part dress based on the story of Cinderella, from Cobblers the shoe shop, and another from St Mary’s Nursery, with a full size blue Cinderella dress complimenting the tree display.

Battle Baptist Church Craft Group knitted figures for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs with Bunny Breaks choosing the same panto but used a large size snow rabbit with seven dwarf rabbits!

However, The Methodist Church decided to play safe with a fun ‘All Pantomime theme’.

There was no voting this year, but the Dean presented each display with a special Recognition of Workmanship Certificate and thanked all those who participated.

Donations from the Festival proceeds will go towards The Salvation Army Surviving Christmas Campaign Hastings and St Mary’s Pastoral Care.

Look out for other chances to see the Christmas trees during Battle’s late night shopping evening.

Other forthcoming events at St Mary’s: St Michael’s Hospice ‘Lights of Love’ Service on Sunday December 6 at 3pm and a Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at 6pm, on Sunday December 20.

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