[Image: Accrington Market Team with Cllr Marlene Haworth]

A new 18 foot community Christmas tree has appeared in the centre of Accrington’s beautiful Market Hall. The tree has been decorated by all primary age schoolchildren in Hyndburn.

37 schools took part, with over 8,000 children each decorating a bauble provided by Hyndburn Borough Council.

Cllr Marlene Haworth, Deputy Leader of the Council and Town Centre and Events Portfolio Holder described the thinking behind this project:

“We really wanted to celebrate the borough and its resilience this Christmas. The pandemic really hit us hard and threw up many challenges for businesses and residents alike. This diverse community of ours is represented in each bauble hanging on this beautiful centrepiece and we hope it will bring joy to all.”

Market Hall Staff raised the 18 foot tree for the 24 November and the team looked on with great pride once it was complete. Market Manager, Sameena King said:

“It warms my heart to know that the children of Hyndburn have took such care when decorating these baubles for all to see, we are so grateful to them all. I would like to thank the schools publicly for taking this work on in class time, it really has added a lot to the market this year.”

Shoppers, visitors and residents can see the tree in situ until the New Year. The market looks forward to seeing the children admire their own artwork.

For information about opening times and stalls available at Accrington Market visit: https://www.accringtonmarket.com/