THE MINSTER'S Christmas Tree Festival has once again been declared a great success with more than 60 colourful creations lining the church and vital fundraising done by a number groups.

One of those groups was Purple Field Productions, whose wishing tree allowed visitors to write on a dove and then hand their wishes on a branch of the tree.

Rob Rainbow, a PFP trustee, said: "It was enormously popular and the pile of doves ran out. However, 54 wishes were hung and make wonderful reading.

"We would like to thank all of those who made a wish and for their generous contributions and wish them and readers a very happy Christmas."

Also with a tree on display was Neroche School.

Ali Collins, deputy head teacher, said: “We have decorated our tree with school logo decorations and green speech bubbles promoting the NSPCC messages from the assemblies and workshops.

“The charity has been brilliant. All of the children's awareness of Childline has been increased.

“It has prompted lots of classroom discussion and the school council are arranging a sponsored dance in January to raise money for NSPCC.”

The rev Nigel Done from the Minster said: "We have had a very good turnout. We normally have around 2,000 people and it looks like the same again this year.

"It is good to be able to gift to the town such a warm, sparkling and inspiring start to the Christmas season with great acts of generosity."

The Minster is hosting a candle-lit service on Sunday from 6pm.