The use of evergreen trees, wreaths, and garlands to symbolize eternal life was a custom of the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews. Tree worship was also common among the pagan Europeans who would decorate their houses and barns with evergreens at the new year to scare away the devil and would set up a tree for the birds during Christmastime.

The tradition of placing a Yule tree at the entrance or inside the house during the midwinter holidays was commonplace in Germany and this is where the modern Christmas tree originated. The tree was originally set up as a paradise tree on December 24^th, the religious feast day of Adam & Eve. This tree was hung with wafers and later the addition of lights was made to symbolise Christ as the light of the world.

The Christmas tree was introduced to Britain in the 19^th century by Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, by now the wafers had been replaced by toys, cakes, and small gifts.

Our tree here at Timken is a community tree, we have adorned the branches with decorations created by local school children from Millway Primary and Lyncrest Primary and we invited the local residents to come along to watch us switch on the lights. The weather, as predicted was not fabulous but the tree is. The culmination of three generations.

We are proud to be a part of this community and overjoyed that we were able to provide this magnificent tree and everything it symbolises.