It is a cornerstone of a market town’s Christmas celebrations and has proved a charitable hit.

The team at the Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival are celebrating a great week of fundraising, thanks to colourful trees decorating the town’s parish church.

It was the 23rd festival and saw 53 trees, all donated free of charge from Fakenham Garden Centre, decorated by volunteers.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023 (Image: Sonya Duncan)

The festival raised more than £31,000 - with the church raising £15,277 for its project to redevelop its entrance.

Charities on display, with still a couple to declare, raised £16,000 between them.

Anne Peppitt, the festival administrator, said: “We are, of course, delighted.

"As Reverend Tracy Jessop says, the festival is not just about the money, but it is important. That is especially so for the charities, many of which struggle for funding in these difficult times."

The church raised money through its cafe, stalls, tombola and raffle.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023 (Image: Sonya Duncan)

These funds will help Fakenham Parish Church to pay towards its parish share - as well as hoping to fund the redevelopment project of its entrance, which it hopes to begin in January.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023 (Image: Sonya Duncan)

The church was also supported with sponsorship from the Rotary Club and Hayes and Storr Solicitors.

Charities interested in taking part next year are advised to check christmastreefestival.co.uk for updates.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Fakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023. Nick Loades by his charity tree for Ellie's LoveFakenham Christmas Tree Festival 2023. Nick Loades by his charity tree for Ellie's Love (Image: Sonya Duncan)