Spalding couple install the ‘tallest Christmas tree in Lincolnshire’ to spread festive spirit and beat previous county record

A couple reckon the 39-foot Christmas tree going up outside their landmark town property is the tallest in Lincolnshire.

Erika Yao and Andrew Blach, owners of the Sessions House in Spalding, are hoping their festive decoration will warm people’s hearts and beat the county’s record - although the structure was temporarily taken down at the weekend to avoid Storm Darragh sending it tumbling.

The tree is being reinstalled this morning (Wednesday December 11) with sandbags on hand to protect it from the weather.

After moving into the historic courthouse earlier this year, the couple have been working hard to do the town centre landmark justice.

Erika said: “The tallest Christmas tree we could find news coverage for was 32 feet in Lincoln in 2023. When we ordered it our goal was to be the tallest tree in Lincolnshire, so we chose a 39-foot one – it’s certainly the tallest one I’ve ever had in my life.”

The eye-catching feature is made up of steel framework and garlands – which took Erika and Andrew one week to install.

The couple don’t want to stop there either, as Erika is already thinking about what other decorations they could add to the Sheep Market venue.

Speaking when the tree first went up, she added: “We do want to populate the front of the house with Christmas lights and other items. I think it really illuminates the town centre and we have already acquired lots of other decorations for the coming years.

“When we started installing the tree we were very ambitious and thought it would take a couple days of work. It turned out to be a lot more difficult and sometimes the weather didn’t help.

“Every time we’re outside people comment and say how amazing it is.

“Looking at the other businesses who are making the effort to decorate their windows, gives the town a warmer feeling. As we are in the centre of town, we also feel like it’s our responsibility and obligation to celebrate the Christmas spirit and warm people’s hearts as they walk around.”

*The Sessions House will host Christmas markets during December. The events will take place on Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15 and Sunday, December 22, around the new 39-foot tree.

Visitors can enjoy food stalls and local businesses handcrafted goodies. They will run between 10am and 6pm each day.