THE chair of the Bro Ffestiniog Remembrance Tree committee has described this year’s tree lighting ceremony as “surreal”.

Annwen Daniels spoke after the lighting of the remembrance tree in Blaenau Ffestiniog on Saturday, 28 November, donations from which will be given to Hospice at Home.

She said: “It was very different, lots of people drove past with older relatives to see the tree once it was lit. It was very surreal.

“There were also several small pockets of people who came to look at the tree in person. Everyone kept with social distancing guidelines.

“All in all, and considering the current circumstances, it was a great switch-on.”

She continued: “The tree lighting is something which is physical in a world in which we cannot be physical. It brought people a physical image which we can all relate to.

“I went out on the Monday morning after the lighting and people were saying how the tree looked great.

“At the moment, it stands out in Blaenau Ffestiniog as we haven’t got the tree up yet, so it gives people a chance to remember loved ones.”

Annwen added: “We take donations throughout the year.

“If people send money in an envelope and say who they are and who they want to remember.

“We will then write this down in our remembrance book.”

Donations can be sent to the clerk of Cyngor Tref Ffestiniog Town Council at Y Ganolfan Gymdeithasol, Ffordd Wynne, Blaenau Ffestiniog, LL41 3UF