MONMOUTH businesses competed in a Christmas tree making competition at St Thomas's church.

The winning 'tree' submitted by Oxfam was built entirely from books. Runners-up, Shiraz, made a driftwood tree sparkling with jewellery and second runner up Mon Teas craeted a tree hung with purple and sachets of tea.

Churchwarden, Jane Stone, who invited local businesses to contribute decorated trees said, "We were thrilled at the response and so pleased to welcome entries from local businesses as well as organisations and individuals. All the trees were imaginatively decorated and the display down both sides of the church was a joy to look at."

Those who came to look at the trees were able to sit comfortably in the Chancel Coffee Shop and enjoy drinks and cakes while they considered which trees would get their vote as 'most imaginative'. To add to the Christmas spirit, there were stalls selling gifts and cards.

Individual awards went to Chris Leddington, Mary Lewis and Mum's and Toddlers Group, Tommy Tiddlers.

The Christmas Tree Festival raised over £1300 and thanks are due to all who took part.

As part of St Thomas's plans to develop the church hall, the congregation is asking the public what activities they'd like to see at the church hall by filling out their online survey at http://www.monmouthparishes.org.uk">www.monmouthparishes.org.uk