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CHRISTMAS TREE |
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BUY A BRITISH TREE THIS YEAR
CRAFTS & REFRESHMENTS AT WEEKENDS
Christmas Trees have been sold at Chopwell Wood for over 50 years. The Forestry Commission organised the site until 1992 when the "Friends" took over the sales as a major fund raising project. We now work together with a company that grows Christmas Trees - Formoss.
* WHY PURCHASE A TREE AT CHOPWELL WOOD ?
The proceeds of the sale of trees each year brings benefits to the Wood – these are used to fund improvements such as the provision of picnic tables; maintenance of the footpaths; development of the facilities such as the Forest Classroom; the addition of sculptures and other features; and conservation and restoration of woodland habitats. These funds are also pay for a number of public events within the Wood each year.
All our Christmas Trees have been grown in BRITAIN, whilst many others sell trees from other countries (this usually involves the trees being cut early to allow time for shipping). Our trees are Forest Fresh, and with the right care should look good throughout the Christmas celebrations.
Buying a real tree helps the environment - while growing these long-term crops add oxygen to our atmosphere and provide wildlife habitats. After use they can be returned for recycling before the 12th January, to the Main Car Park, or to other sites set up by local Councils.
| The "Friends" Christmas Tree Sales is
unique, we know of no other voluntary group who organise a fund raising event like this.
The atmosphere at the site is so refreshing after the experiences of Christmas shopping
elsewhere. There are 1000’s of trees to choose from, as well as tree stands, wreaths,
and decorations. In addition, at the weekends there are refreshments, crafts
and carols. SANTA will be on site on 8th/9th and 15th/16th to add to
the seasonal spirit.
NO CRAFTS/REFRESHMENTS on 22nd/23rd, but Trees will still be on sale. |
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Friends volunteers keep up the supply of hot drinks. |
The trees brought to the site come in a range of sizes and prices, with a variety of species available. Trees have a care label attached, and a free netting service is available to help you get your tree home. All trees are individually priced, to help you make your choice.
| * TYPES OF TREE AVAILABLE The Norway Spruce is a popular variety because of its bushy conical shape and its low cost. The Fir Trees are a similar shape to the Spruce, but cost twice as much due to the longer growing period and extra care required. Fir Trees do retain their needles much longer in a warm atmosphere. We have a range of Fir tree species available. |
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| Many people are really happy with a spruce tree |
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Pine Trees have
upturned branches, which some people prefer, but are not as costly as the Firs. * LOOKING AFTER YOUR TREE All types of felled real tree should have at least 25mm (1") cut off the trunk and be put into a bucket of water, as soon as you get it home. Preferably, leave it outside until you need it (make sure there is always plenty of water, do not allow it to dry out, otherwise you will have to cut another bit off the trunk ! ). We recommend for best display that you use a proper tree stand, or suitable container filled with stones. Give your tree plenty of water, and regular top ups. Try to place it in the coolest part of the room. If there is a radiator nearby then turn it off/or down to its lowest setting. Ensure that the tree is taking up water before decorating, the water level should go down very visibly within a day. These tips will help you keep your tree fresh. |
| These children have chosen a pine tree |
| The sales site is situated next to the main car
park, and sales open on 1st December, from 8 am to 8 pm each day until
23rd December. The site is lit up for the evening sales hours, adding
to the seasonal mood. Car parking is free. The Chopwell Wood "Real Tree Experience" is a unique way of buying your tree, whilst helping the "Friends" to continue the work of caring for the Wood. |
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Packaging a Pine tree |
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© Copyright 2007 - Friends of Chopwell Wood |