Christmas tree bought by Sheffield family in 1930s still bringing joy today

Jude Wainwright, 33, believes the replica spruce was bought by her great aunt and uncle in 1931, the year they married.

But when the couple emigrated to South Africa 28 years later, the festive fir remained in Sheffield and has since been passed through three generations of the family.

Jude, who now lives in Manchester, remembers decorating the tree as a child and – almost nine decades after it was first bought – it is now taking pride of place in her home as she carries on the long-running festive tradition.

She said: “It was given to my grandma, Esther Wainwright, before being given to my dad – that’s how it ended up in my family. My grandma actually lived with us for a bit and it came to our house, we used it then for many years as our tree.

"After that we started getting real trees and I refused to let my parents get rid of it so I put it in my room. When I moved to Manchester it came with me too.”

Jude says she used to decorate the artificial spruce with Christmas lights and ornaments she had made at school – something she continues to do to this day.

Commenting on the tree, she added: “Honestly it’s ridiculous, it’s like a toilet brush. I built the tree up so much, my boyfriend was disappointed when he saw it! I’ve looked on the base and it has the words ‘western Germany’ stamped on it not ‘west Germany’.

"It’s very sentimental to me as it has belonged to my family for a long time. I’m fascinated by my family tree and the history of it and it’s nice to have the tree this year especially as I’m missing my family so it feels good to have a piece of them with me in Manchester.”

And, even though it may be lacking a few needles, Jude says she has no plans to get rid of the tree just yet.

"I said to my dad that I don’t know if I’m going to have kids – if I do they can have it, if not just bury it with me!” she said.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.