An overseas tradition has made its way to the South Hams, putting a seaside spin on a holiday custom.
For the month of December, Brian Clavin has organised the fundraiser to help raise money for the vital village asset.
Last year, the initiative involved stacking lobster pots into a tree shape, decorating it, and then putting a bucket at the base for donations. With the help of Hope Cove Harbourmaster Ray Staff, local fishermen Dave “Big Dave” Clarke and Mark Taylor and a few residents, the lobster pot Christmas tree raised around £700 last year.
Brian originally suggested the tradition when he was talking with Ray and Dave last November. They discussed the condition of the breakwater and the consequences if it was left to the relentless elements.
Brian, who is originally from Newport, Rhode Island then remembered the tradition they had at the end of each lobster season when the fishermen would haul the pots in and stack them on the quayside.
He said one day after work, one of the crew members said: “These stacking pots stink, why don’t we make it fun and build a Christmas tree out of them?!”
The crew all agreed and the tradition was started.
This year, Brian is hoping to raise even more money for the charity by giving local businesses and residents the opportunity to decorate their own ornaments, on top of the residents that were able to do so during Hope Cove Weekend in August.
During that weekend, a ‘Save the Breakwater, Adopt an Ornament’ stall was set up, where a person could choose which ornament they wanted, and decorate it for the Christmas season for a small donation.
Their names were then inked on the back along with the year and they’ll be able to see them on the lobster pot tree this month.
Now, Brian and the lobster pot initiative organisers are looking for support from local businesses. If businesses decide to sponsor a Christmas tree bauble, they can decorate it with their logo, and all proceeds will go to Friends of Hope Cove Breakwater.
The ‘tree’ should be fully assembled complete with over 200 decorations by Friday. There’s still a chance to sponsor an ornament, or alternatively, another donation box will be placed at the base.
Then, on Friday at 5.30pm, organisers will host an official lighting of the tree complete with Christmas carols, mulled wine, and of course, mince pies.
If you are interested in sponsoring an ornament, contact Brian Clavin at 01548 560626, or visit the Hope Cove Christmas Tree Facebook page.