Oak Inn at Staplow's Christmas tree 'moves people to tears'

The Oak Inn at Staplow near Ledbury has collected 1,000 messages dedicated to lost loved ones, with the notes handwritten on red hearts.

Chris Owen-Howells' message to his mother (Image: Rob Davies)

The pub began collecting messages on Remembrance Day and decided to continue until Christmas.

The 1,000th red heart message was added to the memorial tree by Vicky Kaye, dedicated to her late father Richard Hadley who died last Christmas and was a regular at the Oak Inn.

Vicky Kaye putting a message for her father on the tree (Image: The Oak Inn)

"We didn't want Christmas decorations so continued with the hearts," said landlord Chris Owen-Howell.

"We've had people very moved and many in tears. Even some of our team have been moved.

"After Christmas we plan to bury the hearts and plant a new tree in our beer garden."

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The tree was from Templecourt Christmas Trees and is in the pub's new Apres Ski Bar.

The Apres Ski Bar is part of the pub that features a log fire, patio heater and blankets to keep everyone warm and toasty while they enjoy board games and festive music.

It can also be booked for private hire.