THE county s leading wildlife conservation charity is kicking its seasonal celebrations off with a sparkle this week with its first ever Festival of the Trees. Taking place on December 5-6 in St Albans Town Hall, the event is organised by Herts and Middle

THE county's leading wildlife conservation charity is kicking its seasonal celebrations off with a sparkle this week with its first ever Festival of the Trees.

Taking place on December 5-6 in St Albans Town Hall, the event is organised by Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT) with the aim of to raise as much money as possible for wildlife across the county.

A total of 50 trees will be on display between 10am-4pm, decorated by community groups from St Albans and the surrounding areas, including the Herts Advertiser.

Each group has been able to use their tree to promote their organisation or cause to visitors to the event, and other organisations involved include Herts and Middlesex Badger Group, Age Concern, Verulam Writers Guild, two town twinning societies, Oxfam, St Albans Museums, West Herts Multiple Sclerosis Society, St Albans' Bereavement Network, The Crescent, Royal British Legion, St Albans Sub Aqua Club, St Albans Guide group and a number of local schools.

Throughout the weekend, families will also be able to meet the HMWT badger in his sett and have a picture taken with the cuddly critter. Visitors will be invited to vote for their favourite tree with the most voted for tree receiving a special People's Tree Award. Local schools and musicians will entertain at points during the weekend. On Sunday there will be a Big Tree Sell Off at 4pm when any of the trees can be bought and taken away.

Trust marketing and fundraising manager Danielle Porteous said: "This is a great opportunity for community groups, clubs and schools to highlight their work by decorating a tree or performing at the Festival. We're delighted that so many groups are taking part and joining our drive to protect wildlife at the same time."

She added: "All money raised will go directly towards the Trust's work for wildlife - including helping to protect water voles, meadows, bitterns, wetland havens, butterflies, dragonflies, orchids and much, much more, so we want lots of people to come and enjoy the trees, lights and fun.

"By joining in they're helping us to raise money for wildlife, in a fun and festive way and helping us to protect local wildlife for future generations to enjoy.