Saint Francis Hospice are once again running a Christmas Tree recycling service in January 2025.

To take part, you must register for a collection before 8am on Monday 06 January 2025 and hospice volunteers will collect the tree between Thursday 09 January and Sunday 12 January. There is no specific fee for providing this service but they ask for a donation to the hospice charity.

For more information and to register, visit sfh.org.uk/recycle-your-christmas-tree  .

The History of Christmas Jumpers

Love them or hate them, Christmas jumpers have earned their place in the festive season. Whether it’s a cosy knit with a snowflake pattern or a full-on light-up reindeer with bells, these seasonal sweaters have a story that goes back further than you might think.

Early Days: All About Warmth

Before they were plastered with Santa’s face, jumpers were all about function. In the colder parts of Europe, thick woollen sweaters with winter patterns were common. Designs like reindeer or snowflakes were simply inspired by nature and the weather, not by Christmas. They kept people warm and weren’t worn for laughs.

1950s and 60s: A Gentle Nod to Christmas

Television helped change things. As families gathered around the telly, singers and presenters sometimes wore jumpers with a festive feel. They weren’t loud or silly, just warm and seasonal. Think gentle patterns, soft colours, and a subtle nod to the time of year.

1980s: The Golden Age of Tacky

This is when funny Christmas jumpers truly came into their own. Bright colours, flashing designs, and all sorts of festive nonsense took over. TV hosts wore them without shame, and suddenly jumpers with giant snowmen or stuffed toy elves were everywhere. They weren’t meant to be ironic back then. People wore them because they loved them.

By Editor on 3rd January 2025   /   News   /   Leave a comment