There is an air of conspiracy at St Mary’s Parish Church in Kelvedon.

Groups of people huddle together, deep in conversation and there are whispers of tinsel and baubles, glitter and stars.

For great plans are afoot as the church is once again preparing for its annual Christmas Tree Festival.

For the fifth year running, the town’s church groups, care homes, businesses, uniformed groups, individuals and even whole streets are decorating their trees in the hope of being awarded the honour of being the “Tree of the Year.”

A forest of 37 trees will be included in the competition this year, which will be held on November 30 between 11am and 6pm and December 1 between noon and 5pm.

The church will be crammed full of trees with entertainment and refreshements available each afternoon.

Sales of the programmes will go towards Little Havens Hospice, Witham’s Food Bank and to the church.