The spirit of Christmas shone brightly across the Island as the beloved Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival made a triumphant return last weekend (7th – 10th December), captivating hundreds of visitors across various venues. Despite inclement weather on a few occasions, the festive zeal remained undeterred among enthusiasts. The festival, now organised by Emily Waters and Diane Woodhouse, witnessed an outpouring of support, attracting attendees eager to revel in the magical displays. Highlights of the event included the heartwarming “Lights of Love” concert conducted by Brighstone’s Reverend Jackie Maw. A poignant tribute was provided to Mountbatten Hospice by CEO Nigel Hartley MBE, and attended by Dawn Haig-Thomas the Islands High Sheriff. Enchanting performances by Brighstone’s handbell groups, Trident Band and SWAY were held at St. Mary’s, alongside regular prayers and storytelling for children. There were delightful craft stalls, face-painting, photos in Santa’s sleigh at Calbourne Mill courtesy of Island photographer Duncan Knifton. A variety of entertainment held at the Three Bishops, as well performances from the Boogie Woogie Sisters and Brighstone Barnacles at the Social Club, which created a warm and welcoming ambience. Additionally, the Methodist Church hosted a charming nativity pageant, complete with sheep courtesy of Wild Oak Farm, while Saturday’s festivities saw Santa’s cheerful walkabout. A brand-new addition to this year’s festivities was the tractor ride-out from the Vectis Vintage Tractor and Engine Club, which started at the Isle of Wight Pearl, delighting both young and old alike, as they lined the streets via the venues to watch them drive by. Emily Waters expressed her joy at the overwhelming response, stating:
“We are thrilled to see the community’s excitement and support for the return of this wonderful festival.”
Diane Woodhouse echoed the sentiment, remarking,
“It’s been a pleasure to witness the joy on people’s faces as they enjoy the festive cheer and entertainment across the venues.”
The festival’s primary aim of supporting island-based charities and not-for-profits received tremendous backing from the community. While donations are still being collected, the organisers eagerly anticipate welcoming everyone again next year. The official date for the next year’s festival will be announced in January. The organisers extend their heartfelt gratitude to sponsors AJ Wells and Hose Rhodes Dickson, Betapak and to Keith Pollard for graciously sharing photos that beautifully encapsulate the essence of this joyous occasion. Trees remain on display at the Isle of Wight Pearl and the Methodist Church in Brighstone until the 3rd January. Please refer to these venues directly for opening times. For media inquiries, contact Emily Waters on [email protected]. 
Every cloud……for the delay in dingy content spilling out onto our shores will save us a day or two’s costs.. as our pensioners have enforced cut backs by Labour to fund unwanted people who will be given everything, as they arrive with nothing.
Should have voted Reform, too late now
Even for a reformist, your level of grammar is particularly low. For a patriot, the English languages seems to have by-passed you.
I r o n y
That’s because we had too many immigrants in our school, many disruptive and most required one to one costly help with English.
Thank you for being so kind as to highlight my weaknesses, I am sure you would point out the same to your dinghy chums too..,,,,,,,wouldn’t you?
The island needs to house migrants so the island can
Diversify.
Such a shame the island is full of racist uneducated B’stards
like yourself.
Come on Mr Starmer the island needs to house migrants.
The weather has nothing to do with f politics.
I believe that the millions of £’s saved by depriving pensioners (- other than those in receipt of pension guarantee credit-plus a few other categories-) are to be set aside for the increase in pay being considered for the NHS doctors
Where’s my pay rise?
Are they the only workers that deserve it?
How helping out some minimium wage employees… they could probably do with it more.
If they swapped the dinghies for the floating bridge , everyone be happy
Every time…..
Mr Babshuka
Why…
??
So pleased DEFORM lost.
You must be a sad person, get over it, life goes on.
Just like a game of Football, the best team Won
Labour 1 – Deform 0
Roll on summer, it’s been a funny year.
Been a nice sunny day so far .
You must be in Spain or I have gone batshit crazy.
Typical weather men trying to put the dampers on everything, bad enough with the useless politicians of this country.