Knighton Christmas Tree Festival selects Lamp as its Charity of the Year

The Knighton Christmas Tree Festival committee has selected Lamp as its charity of the year for its Christmas Tree Festival which will take place from 3-4 December at St Mary’s Church in Brinsmead Road, Leicester.

A former user of the Lamp’s mental health advocacy services brought the charity to the committee’s attention when they realised that it relies on the support of the community for much of its funding.

The committee agreed to support Lamp and now aims to raise awareness of the charity with the wider community throughout the duration of the festival.

Sue Holligan, a member of the Knighton Christmas Tree Festival committee said:

“We hope that as in previous years with the other charities we supported, that through the Christmas Tree Festival, Lamp will become known to the wider population. Our earlier festivals saw over 1,000 people drop by to enjoy viewing the display of over 50 Christmas trees around the 700-year-old church. For many people, the festival marks the start of the Christmas and the air is filled with joy and excitement.”

Lamp supported the festival in 2021 by displaying its own tree. In keeping with tradition, Lamp will have its own Christmas tree at this year’s festival and the charity would like visitors to come along and write a message to hang on its tree, which will be located near the entrance of the church. Lamp’s team members will be on hand with further information about the charity and its advocacy services.

The Knighton Christmas Tree Festival is an annual event hosted by St Mary’s Church and supported by local ward councillors and retailers. The event is an opportunity for local groups, schools, organisations and charities, along with individuals and families, to celebrate the season by decorating and displaying a tree, as well as to meet others and socialise, whilst supporting charitable causes.

Entry to the festival is a nominal £2 donation per adult, whilst children go free and can enjoy free squash and biscuits along with a ‘find me’ trail plus an art and play activity. There will be a refreshments area where visitors will be able to buy drinks and seasonal cakes. Visitors can also look forward to performances by local choirs and ensembles and take part in a raffle, with prizes kindly donated by individuals and local retailers.

Visitors who need to be in a less stimulating environment have been invited to the quieter session on Friday 2 December. The festival will also welcome the residents of local care homes on Monday 5 December with free admission.

Further details on St Mary’s Church can be found here, while information on the Knighton Christmas Tree Festival can be found here.