Imaginatively decorated Christmas trees are attracting interest in Ronaldsway airport once again in aid of a children’s charity.

A total of 21 trees made of materials including cardboard, driftwood and even wheelchair wheels now proudly stand upstairs in the airport following the launch of Isle of Man Save the Children’s Festival of Trees.

To mark the occasion, King William’s College choir performed in front a large gathering with the Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney officially opening the festival.

Schools that entered trees this year include: Ashley Hill Primary School in Onchan; Buchan School in Castletown; Cronk-y-Berry Primary School in Douglas; King William’s College and Peel Clothworkers’ School.

Charities and organisations that entered include: Cruse Bereavement Care; Manx Stroke Foundation; the Wooden Spoon Wheelchair Sports Club; Christian Aid; Cruse Bereavement Care; Hospice Isle of Man; Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association; Isle of Man Girl Guiding; Isle of Man Post Office; Isle of Man Retirement Association; Isle of Play; One World Centre; Ramsey Baptist Church; Southern Befrienders; Spot on Cleaners; Stroke Art of The Manx Stroke Foundation; The Small Biz Studio and Thompson Travel.

John Cuddy of Isle of Man Save the Children said: ’There are a great variety of trees and Christmas related tableaux this year, with many themes and a lot of ingenuity.’

The public have the opportunity to vote on their favourite tree with envelopes available to pop their choice into the nearby wishing well station. The festival will close on January 6.

To enter next year, email Jane at [email protected] or John at [email protected].