The chairman of the parish council, Cllr Gaynor Crute, opened the event by introducing the children of Blackhall Colliery and St Joseph's primary schools who sang a selection of seasonal favourites.
Reverend Alison Richardson from St Andrew's church then offered a blessing for the tree before leading the children in a countdown to the formal illumination ceremony.
Thanks go to the clerk, chairman and members of Monk Hesleden Parish Council, along with the pupils and staff from both Blackhall Colliery and St Joseph's primary schools for their annual involvement in this ceremony which grows each year in popularity. Special thanks go to Reverend Alison on this her first formal tree lighting ceremony, one which it is hoped will be the first of many.
Tonight it will be the turn of Hesleden school and residents to switch on their Christmas tree lights. Please gather on the green outside of the Hesleden Community Centre at 4pm.
