Article by Jean Davies

Christmas past, present and future spreads enchantment at this year’s 25th Tree Festival

A record £31K was raised, how amazing! Well done everyone involved!!

Bosom Pals have been involved with Bedford Christmas Tree Festival for the past 10+ years, by selling raffle tickets during the 5-day event and running the café on two days. The Festival has become such a firm favourite in the run up to Bedford’s Christmas with something for everyone. This year 70 glittering trees were decorated by local community groups, schools and firms in the majestic setting of St Paul’s historic church. Against this backdrop, throughout each day, a total of 46 choirs and other performers entertained guests and visitors.

On Friday evening 5th December ‘Amici Music’ made up of 25 musicians celebrated the 25 years by performing pieces by Bach, Mozart, Vivaldi, seasonal favourites and other fabulous music at the annual Festival Concert.

Having already raised £250K over the past 25 years, the Festival won the Fundraiser of the Year (Team) Category in Bedford Independent’s Everyday Heroes Awards 2024. This year a record breaking £31K was raised, shared between the two charities, St Paul’s Church Bedford and Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends.

The Festival requires immense dedication from some 330 volunteers and office staff to ensure that everything runs smoothly. The Committee is grateful to the Festival’s main sponsor, Jayne Beard Associates and to many other sponsors, businesses and individuals.

Thanks to all Bosom Pals members and friends who give of their time, selling raffle tickets, manning the café on two days and baking wonderfully delicious home-made cakes. Bosom Pals, the Christmas Tree Committee and the two charities who benefit from its proceeds are truly grateful for your help during this busy Christmas season.

We couldn’t have done it without you!

Once again we were given a hamper and it was suggested that Bosom Pals might like to refill it for use as a raffle prize at the 2025 Christmas Tree Festival.

Members attending the monthly meetings kindly donated money which was then used to purchase the items.

Margaret kindly took the job on this year from Pauline and as you can see from the picture it was another success.
Thank you to everyone who kindly donated. The hamper looked great on the raffle table behind where we sat selling the tickets.