CROWDS of school children gathered to watch Rose Hill’s first community Christmas tree arrive at The Oval.

Pupils from Rose Hill Primary School were given a break from lessons to watch the 25-foot tree lowered into place.

Headteacher Sue Mortimer said: “I’ve been here six years and it’s the first time I’ve ever seen a Christmas tree on The Oval.

“The children were just so excited by being out there and watching the crane, which is always interesting for young children.”

Organiser Fran Gardner, from Oxford City Housing Association, said: “The kids were so excited, it was really lovely.

“The tree’s arrival was unbelievable. I was quite anxious having had to sort out all the logistics through phone calls and emails.

“It was quite difficult because it has never been done before, so I was very relieved when it safely slipped into place.”

Now contractors are busy decorating the tree with 90 metres of electric lights which will be switched on by Rose Hill’s oldest resident, 96-year-old Florence Tomlinson, at a celebration on Saturday Organisers are hoping she will be joined by Rose Hill’s newest arrival and are asking mums and dads to contact them if they think their son or daughter could be the youngest member of the Rose Hill community.

At the Christmas lights celebration, which starts at 5pm, crowds will be entertained by a concert featuring a gospel choir, jazz band and a community choir before the switch is flicked on the display.

l If you think your child is the estate’s youngest resident, contact Fran Gardner at OCHA on 0800 980 9272 or email fran.gardner @ocha.org.uk