BARNTON is due to boast two Christmas trees after a new permanent tree was planted on Townfield Lane on the grass outside Rosebank School.

The tree was chosen by the children on a visit to Broomheath Plantation at the start of this month.

“The tree is in response to safety issues regarding the lighting ceremony and carol singing which has previously taken place on Jubilee Corner,” said Clr Sheena Beech from Barnton Parish Council.

“This new venue has the added benefit of a place to hold the carol singing inside thanks to the kindness of Rosebank School if the weather is bad, as was the case this year.”

The tree has been planted by the parish council, which has also had a rooted tree donated for Jubilee Corner, which was too late to plant this month but will be in place in the next few weeks.

“Although the lantern procession from Jubilee Corner to Rosebank had to be cancelled at short notice due to the bad weather, we are hoping to encourage people to design their own lanterns next year on a theme to be announced in the Tunnel Top newsletter later in 2015,” added Clr Beech.

“The carol concert went ahead at Rosebank, with good attendance, both adults and children enjoyed the sing-a-long section and Barnton Silver Band were melodious and festive with their novelty hats.”

Both trees are due to last for between 10 and 15 years. The Townfield Lane tree and its planting cost £200, and the Jubilee Corner tree has been donated by a local farmer, and will be planted free of charge by John Hughes, the parish council’s grounds maintenance contractor.