THE annual Stroud Christmas Tree Festival will be returning to St Laurence Church from December 3 to 12.

This year the theme will be the ‘celebration of community’.

Groups, organisations, charities and businesses from in and around Stroud are invited to take part and exhibit a tree.

A festival spokeswoman said: “The festival is a great opportunity for you to promote your organisation or business with a tree decorated in any way you choose.

“Please be as creative as you like.

“You do not have to decorate the tree to fit the theme, but we would like you to consider doing so if you wish.”

There will be a special preview event on December 2, and other events including Goodwill Evening opening, and a concert on December 10.

The festival is raising funds to keep the church going with essential repairs, including a new roof, and towards its future.

There is no charge to exhibit a tree, but spaces are limited.

The deadline for applications is October 31.

To apply to exhibit a tree and for more information see: stroudparishchurches.org.uk/christmas-tree-festival

Any queries please contact christmas.festival@stroudparishchurches.org.uk