THOUSANDS of people flocked to Tavistock Parish Church to visit the town's very first Christmas Tree Festival.

More than 3,000 people visited the event, which proved to be well above expectations in both attendance and enjoyment levels.

The festival featured 47 trees decorated by local schools and businesses, and visitors were asked to vote for their favourite. The Goosey Quilters tree received the most votes, closely followed by The Lawns, and there was a three-way tie for third place between Gulworthy, the church choir and Tavistock Community Primary School.

A prayer tree featured in the festival and requests for prayers which were placed on the tree will be said at services held between now and the New Year.

Winners of the free prize draw were Eric and Sylvia Cockings, who won a Creber's hamper.

The tree festival raised nearly £4,000, which will be added to the Friends of Eustachius' fundraising.

The Friends expressed thanks to everyone who contributed to making the festival a success.

If you would like to consider becoming a Friend of St Eustachius, please contact Karen at the parish office on 01822 616673 for more details.