Cllr Gaynor Crute, parish council chair, started off this ever popular festive event by introducing the children of Blackhall Colliery primary school and St Joseph's RCVA primary school who then sang a selection of Christmas carols with their usual enthusiasm. Fr Jackson then offered the customary blessing before leading the children in a countdown to the lighting up of the tree.
Many thanks go to the clerk, chairman, staff and members of Monk Hesleden Parish Council for their efforts in pulling the event together, and particular thanks go to the pupils and staff from both Blackhall Colliery and St Joseph's primary schools for adding something special to a ceremony which continues to grow each year in popularity.