Summerhill Garden Centre set to unveil Christmas display

Despite warnings of a heatwave next week, Summerhill Garden Centre, on the A127, has been busy kitting out the centre with trees, bright lights, sparkly tinsel and all things festive. 

Exciting - Christmas preparations are underway (Image: Summerhill)

Over the bank holiday weekend garden centre bosses will throw open the doors to their winter wonderland – and claim they have been receiving enquiries from customers since June. 

One customer has even told them they will be travelling down from Scotland to get their hands on festive decorations. 

The move has divided opinion on Facebook, with some criticising the early start to Christmas but many customers have already said they will be heading to the garden centre to start feeling festive on August 24. 
Sparkly - Plenty of tinsel for the Christmas tree (Image: Summerhill)

A spokesman for Summerhill Garden Centre said: “We open our Christmas department over the August Bank Holiday each year, and have done so for many years now.

“We receive many enquiries as early as June from customers wanting to know when the department will be open and this year has been no exception.“One customer has contacted us and is going to be visiting from Scotland.

Festive - Customers travel miles for the early Christmas display (Image: Summerhill)

“The sheer scale of the department and displays means we have to start preparations early.

“As stock comes in over the coming weeks, we will continually build the displays with it reaching its peak in October.“Such is its popularity, some ranges can come and go long before December.

Happy - Some of the Christmas trees lined up (Image: Summerhill)

“There is a lot of demand for Christmas, and many customers have said they find it helpful that they can spread the cost over the months.
Display - Preparations are underway (Image: Summerhill)

“The team work with local, national and international suppliers to produce new and unique collections of inspirational themes every year. It is a labour of love and we are incredibly proud of what we achieve every year.”

Summerhill Garden Centre is always the first place in Essex to showcase a festive display and sell decorations.

Gavin Callaghan, leader of Basildon Council, added: “I know not everyone loves Christmas, but I really think Summerhill is a jewel in our borough’s crown. I must go ten times a year to look through the decorations.”