Christmas trees spread cheer at borough church

Pictured from left, are Coun Jamies Hodgkinson and James Watson, next to some of the 11 Christmas trees primary school children have decorated outside St John the Baptist's Church in Atherton town centre.

Residents in Atherton were disappointed that the annual carol service and nativity were cancelled this year due to the coronavirus crisis.

Instead it was decided that an additional feature would bring the community together in these difficult times.

The idea for the trees at St John the Baptist’s Church was the brainchild of Coun Stuart Gerrard’s wife, Gillian, who suggested this on Remembrance Sunday.

However, in collaboration with the Atherton Business Partnership, the Atherton Carnival Committee and primary schools, they were able to make the idea a success.

Coun James Paul Watson said: “This year in collaboration with the council and through the our town fund, we have also added a new Christmas tree on the Leigh Road and our brilliant lights down Market Street. From myself, Coun Gerrard and Coun Hodgkinson we would like to wish Atherton a very Merry Christmas.”

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 for your first month. Try us today by clicking here and viewing our offers ...