CHRISTMAS ARRIVES IN SHERFORD AS THE COMMUNITY CELEBRATES A DECADE OF FESTIVITIES
Christmas has once again brought sparkle and community spirit to Sherford, with residents coming together to mark a special milestone – the 10th year of Christmas celebrations in the town. What began in Sherford’s very first year with local schoolchildren planting miniature Christmas trees in a field, has grown into a cherished tradition, now drawing hundreds of residents to join in with the festivities.
Across the weekend, Sherford was transformed with illuminations, carols around the Christmas tree, and joyful moments shared among neighbours – continuing a much-loved celebration at the heart of the growing community. This year’s festivities were led by Sherford Community Land Trust and Sherford Community Church, with support from the Sherford Consortium – a partnership between award-winning national housebuilders Taylor Wimpey & Vistry Group, which includes Countryside Homes, Linden Homes and Bovis Homes.*
A weekend of celebration
The weekend began with Santa touring the town on his sleigh on Saturday 13th December, delighting families and spreading festive cheer ahead of the main event. On Sunday 14th December, residents enjoyed a packed programme of activities across Sherford Vale School Hall, the local centre and Sherford Community Hub. Children took part in seasonal arts and crafts and visited Santa in his grotto, while a bustling Christmas Market offered locally made gifts, treats and crafts.
As afternoon turned to evening, the community gathered outside for carols by candlelight around the tree, a nativity service, and a performance by the community choir. This year also marked the first Christmas in Sherford for the town’s new ministers, Jon and Tammy Oliver, who joined Sherford Community Church earlier this year and have already become a valued part of community life.
Earlier in the month, a 12ft Christmas tree illuminated with colourful festoon lighting was installed on the green in front of Sherford Vale School. Gifted annually by the Sherford Consortium, the tree has become a much-loved landmark and the symbolic start of a month of festive events and celebration.
Charitable giving
Festive celebrations were further enriched through charitable giving. The Sherford Consortium made a £300 donation to local good causes, with Sherford Community Trust receiving £150 to help fund gifts for Santa’s grotto. A further £150 was donated to The Mustard Tree, part of Plymouth Hospitals Charity.
Supporting people diagnosed with cancer, The Mustard Tree provides emotional, practical and wellbeing support when it is needed most, while Plymouth Hospitals Charity helps NHS staff deliver the best possible care and enhance patient experiences across local hospitals. Members of the Sherford community have personally benefitted from the support of The Mustard Tree this year, inspiring residents and community groups to fundraise together. With donations still being collected, the total raised is expected to be significant.
Rob Baker, Managing Director at Taylor Wimpey Exeter, part of the Sherford Consortium, said: “Reaching Sherford’s 10th Christmas is a heartwarming milestone for everyone involved in the town’s story. Each year, the celebrations grow in scale, creativity and community effort – a true reflection of Sherford’s thriving spirit. Christmas is about bringing people together and giving back, and we are proud to support the festivities and help Sherford shine during this special time of year.”
Judy Talbot, from the Sherford Community Land Trust, added: “Sherford’s Community Christmas is always one of the highlights of the year. Thanks to the dedication of residents, volunteers and partners, we’ve once again created magical moments for families across the town. A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved and warm Christmas wishes to the whole community.”
