PLANS to stage the first Christmas trees festival in Sedgefield’s ancient church have been given a cash boost.

A coffee morning held at St Edmund’s Church raised more than £550 to help fund the inaugural event which will be held this winter.

Sales of unique glassware, plants, cards, refreshments contributed to the funds raised during the town’s Sedgefield Day celebrations on Saturday, June 11.

And trips to the top of the church tower proved to be a popular attraction for people who called into the Grade I-listed church.

Festival spokesperson Anne Eyley said: “We are really delighted with the result and want to thank all those who supported us in so many ways.”

Forty local businesses and organisations have already agreed to sponsor and decorate a tree at the festival which will include a concert by Ferryhill Town Band as well as other church-based, traditional festive events in the town.

The festival team has also announced popular Tyne Tees television newsreader and charity worker Pam Royle has agreed to open the festival.

It will run from Saturday, December 3, until Thursday, December 8, during which time there will be a programme of events.

Funds raised will go towards the Butterwick Hospice and DFW Adoption.