A CHRISTMAS tree festival celebrating the newly merged parish of Dudley Wood and Cradley Heath also paid homage to those who kept the home fires burning during the First World War.

Primary school children from Corngreaves Academy festooned their tree with handmade decorations marking the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the Great War.

Deputy headteacher Helen Drinkwater said: “As our pupils have been learning about World War One during the autumn term, they chose to think about life at Christmas during war a century ago as their theme for their tree.” Their tree was donated by festival sponsors solicitors George Green LLP, and was on display with more than 25 themed trees in St John’s Church last weekend.

Rev Alicia Baker said: “We are thrilled that so many people have contributed to our first Christmas Tree Festival at St John's Church. Local community groups and individuals have used lots of imagination in their creations, and local businesses have also entered into the spirit of the season. The church looks really beautiful, and we were pleased that so many people were able to make time during this busy time to come and soak up the atmosphere here.”

Festival organiser Kate Lee added: “We are delighted with George Green’s donation towards the event and appreciate their support,”

Alex Lowe from the firm of solicitors said: “We hope to support further community projects such as the Christmas Tree Festival in the future.”