A CHARITY tree festival in Devizes will for the first time allow people to remember a loved one when a fundraising group holds its third Christmas spectacular at St John's Church.

Organisers from Omnes Ad Unum Devizes already have 60 groups signed up to decorate a tree that will be lit up from December 2 until Twelfth Night on January 6.

Marjie Pook from the group said: "Devizes MP Claire Perry will be judging the trees this year the Mayor Nigel Carter will be at the launch.

"This year we have nearly 60 trees, and we also at offering memorial trees for anyone who would like to remember someone in this way."

The festival is part of the Devizes candlelit Christmas Bazaar that will be held on December 8 from 1pm to 7pm and on December 9 from 10am-3pm in Devizes Town Hall and St John’s Church.

Mrs Pook said: "We have over 60 artisan stalls featuring crafts of all descriptions as well as an assortment of delectable clothing, gifts to inspire, toys, and Christmas decorations to make your house beautiful.

"Also featured will be artists, books, writers, cakes, liqueurs, beautiful jewellery, home décor, toiletries. In fact there is enough to solve your Christmas presents all in one massive shop."

Money raised by both the bazaar and tree festival will go to St John's Church and a number of children's charities including Julia's House, Canon's House and Devizes and District Opportunity Centre.

Trees will be decorated by a wide range of organisations including charities, youth groups and schools. Dauntsey school at West Lavington is making silver stars to go on the top of every tree.

Mrs Pook said: "Trees are sponsored by local people, businesses and organisations, as well as schools, many of whom are also decorating a tree. We are very grateful to everyone who helps to make this event such a success.

"We are also having a North Pole Post Box in the Church from December 2 to 9 so if there are any children who would like a letter from Santa Claus, then please encourage them to post a letter in the box. All letters will receive a reply."

The memorial trees will have plaques with the name and a short dedication to the person they are in memory of. Small trees that will be inside the church cost £15 and large ones outside £30. The indoor trees will be lit with white lights and the outdoor ones with coloured lights.

The trees will be launched on December 2 and on view to the public from December 4.

To take a memorial tree email marjiepook@gmail.com Prize draw tickets are also now on sale to boost charity funds.