Visitors Crown New Champions at This Year’s Christmas Tree Festival

The votes are in. Visitors to this year’s Christmas Tree Festival at Beverley Minster have selected their favourite trees, and two first-time winners have claimed top honours.

The Flower Box tree, a first-time entrant, was named the overall winner. Karen Simpkin, the creative force behind The Flower Box, crafts small arrangements and petal confetti from rescued and recycled unwanted flowers, raising funds for local charities. Her tree, adorned with a stunning mix of fresh and dried flowers, captivated festival-goers.

Karen was delighted by the recognition, but she emphasised the collaborative spirit of the event:

“It’s the story behind every tree that is so important, not just what is on it. This was a huge effort by all the local groups, businesses, and schools, everyone deserved to win.”

In the Schools category, Beverley Grammar School claimed victory for the first time with their playful and imaginative "Elf on the Shelf" tree. Their cheeky take on the festive favourite charmed visitors who saw it.

Meanwhile, the Hull & East Yorkshire Ukrainian Community continued their winning streak by retaining the Creativity award. Their tree, decorated with traditional embroidery and including a doll sent over for the festival from Ukraine, was a favourite for the second year running. Representatives Svitlana and Viktoriia proudly accepted their trophy at the Minster.

Festival organiser Bob Farley praised the effort and creativity of all 150 participants:

“It’s the first time we’ve had so many local charities, groups, schools, and businesses involved. We want to say a huge thank-you for the hard work that’s gone into these trees. Each one has been lovingly and beautifully decorated, giving thousands of visitors moments of reflection, inspiration and enjoyment.”

The Christmas Tree Festival continues to be a beacon of community spirit and creativity, drawing thousands of visitors to Beverley Minster and showcasing the stories and talents of the people and groups who make this town so special.

Winners:

The Flower Box - Overall Winner

Beverley Grammar School - Schools category winner

Hull & East Yorkshire Ukranian Community - Creativity category winner