End of an era as Christmas tree sales end at Cannock Chase forest due to 'financial concerns'
Forestry England have cited financial issues as the reason for ceasing Christmas tree sales at Cannock Chase Forest.
A popular Yuletide tradition is set to come to an end as Christmas trees will no longer be on sale at a Staffordshire forest.
Forestry England have announced that the Christmas tree sale at Cannock Chase Forest would not be taking place this year, saying that a mixture of financial contributions from sales declining and increased financial pressures had caused it to cease the annual event.
It said it was looking for new ways for people to enjoy the forest and thanked the public for the support it has given the sales over the years.
A spokesman for Forestry England said: “This year marks the end of Christmas tree sales at Cannock Chase Forest.
“For many years, Christmas tree sales helped families create festive memories while generating valuable income to support our work.
“As a largely self-funded organisation, we raise much of the money needed to care for the nation's forests ourselves.
“Activities and events like these not only give more people the chance to enjoy our forests in different ways, they also help fund the vital work that happens behind the scenes to make sure Cannock Chase Forest remains resilient, healthy and here for future generations.
“However, over time the financial contribution from Christmas tree sales declined, while the commercial pressures involved continued to increase.
“As a result, it is no longer the right activity for us to continue.
“While it's the end of an era and one that will be met with some sadness, we're incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported Christmas tree sales over the years.
“We're always exploring new ways for people to enjoy the forest, while helping generate the income that allows us to invest back into our forests, so as time goes on we hope to have exciting announcements to share with you.
“Whatever we do, it is developed in partnership with our foresters, ecologists and forest planners to ensure trees, wildlife and habitats are protected and enhanced while visitors have a great experience.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported Christmas tree sales over the years.“
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