Standing tall: Ottery’s Christmas tree ready to bring festive cheer

A team from Ottery once again pulled out the stops to erect a stunning Christmas tree just outside the library, bringing the spirit of Christmas to the town.

Around 15 years in the growing, the 16ft Norway Spruce was chosen for its symmetrical shape and lush foliage and cut from Otter Garden Centre’s Christmas tree plantation.  

Once safely secured, the tree was decorated with oversized fairy lights, icicles and giant baubles. As has become tradition, Ottery resident Richard Coley hung the first of the giant baubles, after which everyone pitched in to make sure the tree was prettily decorated.

Richard said: “Every year we think we’ve got the best tree, but this is the best yet! A big thank you to Otter for helping, it is so much easier than when we used to do this ourselves.”

The same team come each year to undertake the joyful task: joining Richard were Vicky Johns from Ottery Town Council, and from Otter Garden Centres, Neil and Kevin Palfrey, Lucy Wederell and John Giblin.

John said: “We genuinely enjoy coming every year to get the tree up and ready. It’s such a nice thing to do, and really kicks off the Christmas celebrations.”

Vicky added: “I think this is a beautiful, very traditional tree. We’re delighted that Otter send their ‘A’ team every year to put it up.”

For a real festive experience, Christmas carols will be sung round the tree on December 17 at 7pm followed by mince pies and punch.