Last Saturday 29 November, Tilling Green Residents Association (TGRA) held a “Tree-Mendous” Christmas event at Tilling Green. Over 300 people attended and the highlight of the day was the lighting of Tilling Green’s second ever Christmas tree. It brought the community together and the tree is so welcoming as you drive into the estate.
Donna and Dan Lake, Simone Denman, Joan Ridgers, Lauren Rose and Graham Ellis ( in charge of the tree), together with the numerous volunteers, created a warm inviting atmosphere and should be proud of their achievements.
Dan summed up the day, “The Tilling Green Community Centre was buzzing with families laughing and having fun with something for all ages to do. Rye Town Crier Paul Goring opened the event and was at the ready to introduce the various musical entertainment throughout the day.
“There was a craft room which was managed by Isabel Ryan where children and parents got to paint different Christmassy shapes provided by Craft Magic. There was a chance to win a family ticket for this year’s Rye Panto, Crazy Christmas at the Haunted Hotel, by drawing or painting a festive picture. The lucky winners were Charlotte and Lillie who are looking forward to attending the pantomime. Isabel was helped by Kate and Lauren who were invaluable and made the day run smoothly. Donations of craft materials were kindly given by Isabel and the Lake family.
“A fun room was run by Rye Youth Zone who had games like Giant Jenga for the young and adults to play and you could also decorate a cake or biscuit – this was always busy throughout the day.
“Santa’s Grotto was a big hit. Over 50 children received a present from Santa before he walked around the building handing out sweets to children and adults then headed back home to the North Pole. He was ably assisted by a very kind Elf called Luke. The grotto was designed by Rye Partnership who jointly hosted the event with us. I think everyone agreed that the grotto looked fantastic.
“The hall had various local groups raising money for their organisations and individuals who were selling different items. TGRA held a grand raffle with prizes donated by local businesses. In the kitchen there was homemade soup, French bread and mince pies on offer and in the playground, there was a burger van and waffle van.
“There was lots of music throughout the day. First up were Kings Church 1066 and the aptly Tilling Green Carol Singers singing Christmas carols, then later we had the Rye Ukulele band who sang Christmas songs and, in a nice twist, provided musical instruments for the younger children so they could take part in the songs.
“Next up was Charlotte who was joined by Amelia Dawson to sing some well-known chart-topping song. Ryebellion Drummers then took centre stage as they drummed outside the front of the community centre with their drums all lit up. It drew the crowds outside who eagerly awaited the lighting of the tree.
“Rye Town Crier Paul Goring started off the proceedings followed by speeches by Rye Town Mayor Andy Stuart, Mayoress Niki Stuart and Tilling Green Residents Association Chair Dan Lake, who thanked the committee, Rye Partnership, the volunteers and everyone who had helped to make event a success. Andy and Niki Stuart then switched on the lights of the Christmas tree before those in attendance were treated to Carol singing around the Christmas tree by the great St Mary’s Church Choir.”
This video by Martin and Kt Bruce shows just how much fun it was.
It was a fun day with everyone commenting that Christmas certainly had arrived at Tilling Green.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Isabel Ryan , Kt bruce .