The Christmas tree on top of the Woodcutters Pub in Belfairs was once again lit up this Christmas, with the switch-on attended by local MP David Amess, the Mayor of Southend Councillor Ann Holland, and Belfairs Councillors Stephen Aylen, Fay Evans and Lesley Salter.

The Christmas tree was sponsored by Arriva again this year and Publicity Manager, Richard Lewis, said: ""We are delighted to sponsor the Christmas tree at the Woodcutters for the second year running and I would like to take the opportunity to wish our customers in Belfairs, and throughout Southend, a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.""

After the switch-on, the judges decided that the Best Dressed Shop Front in Belfairs was the Belfairs Chemist, who awarded the prize by Mr Amess and Councillor Holland. Although this was only the first year of running the Best Dressed Shop Front competition in Belfairs, a good effort was made by all the shops.