A CHRISTMAS concert featuring primary schools in the St Austell area is being staged by the town council.

The free concert will be held at St John’s Methodist Church in the town centre on Friday, December 5, at 6pm.

A council spokesperson said: “Join us for an evening of festive cheer as we welcome the voices of Sandy Hill Academy, Bishop Bronescombe School, Pondhu Primary School and St Mewan Primary School.

“There’s free entry with no ticket required. Enjoy the music and get into the Christmas spirit.

“Priory Car Park will be free on the night to celebrate the occasion. There will also be a raffle on the night in aid of the mayor’s charities, Gover Valley Food Bank and A Band Of Brothers Cornwall.”

The following day the Forget-me-not Chorus in St Austell is holding a Christmas celebration entitled All You Need Is Love.

The performance, under music leader Caroline Childe, will take place at 11am, on Saturday, December 6, at Mount Charles Methodist Church in Victoria Road.

A spokesperson for the choir said: “It promises to be an event full of festive music, readings and joy – a wonderful way to celebrate the season together as we use the power of song to support those living with and alongside dementia in your community.”

Meanwhile, St Austell Library is running a Christmas tree decorating competition which is open to all local businesses, schools, groups and organisations, and has the theme of Christmas carols or songs.

A library staff member said: “The maximum height of a tree must be no more than 2ft or 60cm. Please drop off trees at the library between December 1 and December 8. All entries will be put on display and will be voted for by the public. The winner will be announced on December 23. The trees should have battery-operated lights only, and all interpretations of ‘tree’ are welcome.”

In the Clay Country, a festival of Christmas trees will be held at St Denys Church in St Dennis on Saturday, November 29, and Sunday, November 30, from 10am to 4pm each day. There will be music from St Dennis Band and Imerys Mid Cornwall Male Choir as well as refreshments and children’s activities.

The St Dennis lantern parade and Christmas lights switch-on will be held on Saturday, November 29. A parish council representative said: “We’re thrilled to announce that our Christmas event is back for its second year. The celebrations begin with a family-friendly party at the Pitch sports bar from 5pm, and Santa and his cheerful elves will be stopping by.

“St Dennis Ukulele Club Band will be playing from 6pm, with a mix of festive tunes to get everyone in the party mood.

“A magical lantern parade will begin at 7.45pm. Follow the glow of lanterns as the St Dennis Band leads the way through the village to Trelavour Prazey. Everyone is welcome to bring a lantern and join the parade. The grand Christmas lights switch-on will take place at 8pm.”