A LEGO tree was one of the winners of a Christmas tree competition, which helped raise funds for Times Territory charities.

A record crowd of more than 1,600 people saw the 61 decorated trees at St Francis of Assisi’s 12th annual Christmas Tree Festival, staged in WGC last weekend.

The event included a Santa’s grotto, tombola, children’s games, stalls and a grand raffle, as well as the contest for the best dressed trees – with all visitors encouraged to vote for their favourites in four categories.

In the school section the winner was Applecroft School, WGC, with the 17th WGC Guides taking the Youth Organisations prize.

The Lacemakers took the Novelty and Open honour and the Family Vincent team won the Family prize for their Lego tree.

The festival’s ‘giving tree’ was donated to the children’s A&E department at the QE2 Hospital, while other trees were available to buy in a silent auction.

Proceeds will be shared between the 1st WGC Scout Group and the church and its outreach work.

Ed Giberti, for the organisers, said: “It was a smashing success.

“I think the choir, which performed in the Howard Centre, on Saturday, as well as pieces in the Welwyn Hatfield Times, really attracted the crowd this year.”