13th Bedford Brownies won the trophy for the best junior tree at Bedford's Christmas Tree Festival 2021. The trophy was presented by Nick Kier of Lane & Holmes (sponsors). Young Georgie (see centre receiving trophy) masterminded the Panto theme while isolating with Covid. She encouraged fellow brownies to help her with the colourful craftwork while Joanne, Brown Owl ensured that the tree was fully decorated at St Paul's church.

Margaret Oakley, Festival Chairman (seen back row in main photo) and her committee are celebrating another successful year. Despite Covid restrictions, the income from entries, sale of trees, festival concert, fizz reception, raffle and sponsorship is £13,400 to be shared equally between St Paul's church and the Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends.

Income from the Festival will go towards the Hospital's Paediatric A & E Appeal while for the church, the income will help fund its immense running costs including heating and lighting.

Margaret Oakley said:

"The footfall of approx 5,000 and the annual sponsorship by Jayne Beard Associates confirm that the Festival is a significant Bedford Community Event".

Get ready folks for 'Musicals', the theme for the 2022 Festival. Decorators can book their trees from September. Further details from Margaret Oakley <mboakley@hotmail.co.uk>