KENILWORTH – Wellington North will be ringing in the new year with a burning of the trees – Christmas trees.
On Dec. 16, council lent its support to the inaugural Downtown Mount Forest Group Christmas Tree Burn event by assisting with location, insurance, cleanup and fire department support.
Mayor Andy Lennox noted representatives of the newly formed Downtown Mount Forest Group requested permission from the recreation committee to hold a Christmas tree burn event at the Mount Forest and District Sports Complex on Jan. 4.
Lennox noted the day of the recreation meeting was followed that night by the annual general meeting of the Mount Forest Chamber of Commerce.
The mayor noted someone had pulled out a scrapbook that included clippings of the beginnings of the Mount Forest Fireworks Festival.
The clipping noted the town helped the festival get started by providing insurance for the first year or so.
“Maybe this can grow into something as long lasting,” Lennox said. “Potentially it can be a lot of fun for community members.
“I wish it all the success.”
He also thanked township staff for being so responsive on short notice.
The fire chief gave approval for the event provided the following conditions were met: approval from the council of Wellington North, proper insurance is acquired and the fire department lights the fire and feeds the trees into it, ensuring it remains manageable.
Community recreation coordinator Mandy Jones said she was approached by members of the newly formed Downtown Mount Forest Group to hold the event on the sportsplex grounds.
She said there would be hot chocolate served at the community event.
The event would also be held on the same night as a Mount Forest Patriots game.
“They are hoping those attending the Christmas tree burning will also go into the arena to watch the Mount Forest Patriots Jr. C. team play,” Jones said.
