By Bridie Adams

THE people of Ludlow have told the council that they want real Christmas tree in the town this year, after it was suggested that an artificial one could be hired.

This comes after a consultation in which the council asked the public about preferences for Christmas lights.

The council used the consultation as part of its research to identify the priorities of the residents and businesses for improving Ludlow’s lights. The council also wants the public to contribute to the costs of upgrading the festive decorations, which are estimated at £38,000 for lights, a ‘Snowflake project’ and an artificial tree if it chooses to hire one.

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When the consultation opened in April, councillor Andy Boddington said: “Last year, people commented on how disappointing the town council decorations were compared to other towns. I am horrified by the suggestion that an artificial Christmas tree could be hired. It is bound to look naff.

“Christmas is a busy time for the town centre. People like to walk through the town centre and see the decorations. Higher footfall over the period is good for our markets and independent traders, including our annual festive events. Most shops decorate their windows, some with quite elaborate schemes.”

The survey results showed that 86 per cent of people said they would like a real tree, while half expressed a preference for warm white lights compared to the 35 per cent who want multi-coloured lights.

A decision on the Christmas lights improvement is due to be made this month, with the lights being ordered in July.