Bedford is one of those towns that can really surprise you. Bedfordian’s everywhere are busy creating little slices of magic for the town with little fanfare or fuss. Jude Cottam is one of those people. For 7 years she has put on the Bedford Christmas Tree Festival in St Paul’s Church in the heart of Bedford town.

Seventy Christmas trees were on display between the 30th November and the 4th December in an immersive Christmas experience that launched you headlong into the festive season. Each tree is different as each was sponsored by a different organisation, from lacemakers, schools, and businesses. The entry fee is donated to charity and the overall experience is simply magical.

We are Bedford entered for the first time this year decorating our tree with handmade donations from anyone who dropped them in to our Pop Up Emporium. The overall effect was charming, a patchwork of origami, exquisite needlework and some quite impressive use of glitter glue. We would urge anyone to enter next year.