CREATIVE festive submissions by schools, charities and organisations are on display at St Thomas's Church in Salisbury. 

The 19th annual Christmas Tree Festival opened today (Tuesday, December 5) at 10 am at St Thomas's Church and entry is free although donations are welcomed. 

Last year, the event saw more than 11,000 visitors, and people were already lining up to enjoy the creative submissions as soon as the festival opened today. 

Salisbury Journal: Decorated treeDecorated tree (Image: Newsquest) 

The church is filled with nativity scenes and trees decorated by local groups and there are 94 decorated trees to view. Many provide a message relevant to their organisation such as the Salisbury group of the National Women's Register whose tree represents hopes and dreams for the planet. 

Bemerton Townswomen's Guild's submission looks under the sea to celebrate the extraordinary life around the British shores.

Leehurst Swan School decorated their tree with hand-woven owls made by the children.

Horatio's Garden created a natural tree using flora and fauna collected from the hedgerow and garden enjoyed by patients and In- Spire Stitchers created a selection of hand-made angels for their tree. 

 

Salisbury Journal: Santa's WorkshopSanta's Workshop (Image: Newsquest)

Santa's Workshop was provided by St John's Priory to evoke the creative, and magical side of Christmas.

Visitors to the event can enjoy a programme of music throughout the week and Wyvern St Edmund's Choir performed songs from 10.15 this morning. 

The event is open from 10am to 6pm Tuesday, December 5 - Saturday, December 9 and on Sunday, December 10 from 12 noon to 6pm.