Ottery's 19-foot Christmas tree is 'the best ever'

The 19-foot-high tree was put up yesterday morning (Friday, November 24) in time for the Festive Cheer evening - and a young passer-by shouted 'wow!' when she saw it.

It was grown on Otter Garden Centre's Christmas tree plantation in East Devon, and the garden centre also supplied the new giant baubles, decorative icicles and strings of fairy lights.

Following tradition, the first bauble was placed on the tree by Ottery resident Richard Coley who makes sure there’s a Christmas tree in Ottery town centre every year. He was joined by Vicky Johns from the town council, Jeremy Bateson, Sarah Stewart and the garden centre team, John Giblin, Lucy Wederell, Kevin Palfrey and Neil Palfrey.

Richard was delighted with the tree, saying: “This really is the best one ever! I like the new decorations and think it looks lovely. Thanks to everyone for coming to help.”

Otter Garden Centres Managing Director Jacqui Taylor said: “We’re sure this year’s Christmas tree will go down a treat; it has been growing with us for around 15 years to reach its impressive size.

“The team told me that they heard a young passerby shout out ‘wow’ when she saw it! We hope the tree adds to everyone’s enjoyment this festive season.”