Hutton Rudby Tree Lighting

One Monday, while I was catching up on reading the Stokesley, Great Ayton and Hutton Rudby's notices from the weekend, I noticed that Hutton Rudby was having a Christmas tree lighting. I wasn't sure what that involved so I thought I would go along to find out. I had a quick cup of tea and a look around the Community Hub before it closed. I had spoken to the Hub manager and she had agreed that I could stay in the Hub Office until it was time for the Tree Lighting to start. As the time approached, I was encouraged to hear the sound of refreshments being prepared for the event. I went to the front of the church and found people gathering around inside. We couldn't stay there though and gradually we went outside to stand around the Christmas tree.

There was a sense of expectation and tradition. The carol sheets we sang from had been kept from year to year and carefully repaired. Revs Andrew and Pam led prayers and carols. There was also a sense of endings and beginnings as for Andrew this was his first year at the Christmas tree lighting but for Pam, it was her last time.

Everyone joined in with the big count down before the tree lit up. The tree will be a light that everyone will see driving through the village. During the last few carols drinks and biscuits were handed out. I found it very difficult to sing and drink at the same time. As I listened to the words of the carols I wondered whether my life is like a light shining out for all to see.