March locals cash in on wonky Christmas tree fame

Ellen Lewis has been selling wonky tree Christmas cards at her shop in March

A town council said its wonky Christmas tree had brought an unexpected boost to the economy and even drawn in tourists.

The Fenland town of March hit the headlines at the start of the festive season when its spruce resembled a 30ft (9m) green banana.

Its quirkiness attracted media attention around the world, prompting some locals to try and cash in with their own merchandise.

Council clerk Sarah Lemmon said people even wanted a wonky tree next year.

"The fairytale has a happy ending - the moral being, to accept things that are not quite perfect," she said.

"We can all be a bit wonky in one way or another.

"It has brought the town together, boosting the economy and we have even had tourists.

"Overwhelmingly people are very happy, many are asking for a quirky tree next year."

The "leaning tree of March" has become famous around the world

At first, locals scoffed at their wonky tree, caused by a bent trunk, but soon realised they had been given the goose that laid the golden egg.

The small market town became a hubbub of media activity, with news reports comparing it to the leaning tower of Pisa being broadcast on the other side of the world.

Thousands of people turned out to watch its lights get switched on last month and many residents paid tribute with their own wonky trees.

Steve Bailey has a printing and stationery business in the town and decided to ride the wave of publicity with a range of wonky tree t-shirts and sweaters.

"It has created a lot of fun. They are being sent across the world, such is the fame of our wonky tree," he said.

"We have not even promoted it - word of mouth is doing the job. It really has bought so much joy in the run up to Christmas."

Shopper Claire Dean pictured with a wonky tree jumper

A card and balloon shop has also got in on the act this Christmas.

"We have sold around 300 custom-made wonky tree festive cards," said Ellen Lewis, from the store.

"People are sending them to friends and relations all over the world. Everyone seems to know about our wonky tree.

"I am still surprised by all the media coverage it got, but it has been a real boost, and it is brilliant that businesses are working together.

"We might do a wonky calendar next year."

A sign has been put up on the tree, showing off its new-found fame

Out on the street, the mood has been upbeat too.

Local resident, Claire Dean, said: "I have put a wonky tree ornament up, the kids love it. It celebrates being different."

Katherine Nightingale, another local, said: "My son is in New Zealand at the moment. He saw it on TV there, it is fantastic.

"It has brought the whole community together and got us talking. It brings a smile and highlights inclusivity. Whether you love it or loathe it, people are talking about it."