PEOPLE of all ages were enthralled by the magical site of Devizes Christmas Tree Festival on Friday when a church was transformed into a glittering wonderland.

Fundraising group Omnes Ad Unum urged the community to support its latest venture and were not disappointed as the town turned out in force to enjoy the trees and a festive bazaar.

They hope to raise £10,000 to split between children's charities Devizes Opportunity Centre, Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, Canon’s House, Bradbury Manor, Wiltshire Young Carers, and Rowdeford Charitable Trust as well as St John's Church.

Children from schools, nurseries and youth groups as well as charities took the opportunity to dress a tree in their own theme while businesses from across the town sponsored each one.

Many other companies gave generously for a prize drawer which includes the chance to take part in a trolley dash at Morrisons. Groups spent the days leading up to the festival decorating their trees with themes including penguins and reindeer to lolly sticks and hand prints.

Stalls selling artisan goods of all descriptions from jewellery and clothes to cards and decorations were set up in the churchyard. There were also plenty of food and drink to keep everyone happy throughout the afternoon and into the evening when the church choir led a carol concert.

Marjie Pook, who was part of the organising committee, said: "Thank you Devizes for supporting the Devizes Candlelit Christmas Bazaar yesterday. It was a great day."

Fellow organiser Mike Sanders thanked everyone who supported the event in advance and on the day. He said: "The second annual Devizes Bazaar was a tremendous success with wonderful stalls, food and mulled wine.

"Set in the marvellous ambiance of St Johns and its surroundings illuminated by candles and beautiful and extraordinary decorated and lit trees hundreds enjoyed a great day."

The trees were judged by Lady Ruth Hawley former High Sheriff of Wiltshire assisted by Veronica Armstrong. Mr Sanders said: "Judging took almost two hours to complete and great consideration was given to the nature of the decorators the originality and sheer skill used. Lady Hawley said she found the task of judging both extremely enjoyable and very difficult due the exceptional quality of the designs."

The senior section was won by Alzheimer’s Support, the junior section by St Joseph’s RC Primary School and Bradbury Manor.

Best Theme went to Julia’s House and most artistic to Southbroom St James Academy Primary School with Devizes Floral Art Club receiving special commendation.

The winning number of the lucky programme for a bottle of Grand Cru Vintage Champagne was 189.

The tree festival will run until Twelfth Night on January 6 with the church open between 10.30am and 4.30pm, except during services. Entrance is free but it will be possible to buy hot drinks, mince pies and draw tickets. Tickets for the draw are available until December 16.