Christmas has arrived early in Evesham, with Blue Diamond Garden Centre already lighting up the season.
The garden centre, located at The Valley, opened its festive department during a preview evening that featured Saxo Santa and sparkling displays.
Visitors explored the newly transformed Christmas section, filled with decorations, gifts, and seasonal displays.
Peter James, garden centre manager, said: “We did warn everyone we were going to mention the C-word, and now it’s officially out of the bag.
“There was a brilliant atmosphere and it was lovely seeing people enjoying the displays, having a laugh, and getting into the festive spirit.
“We know October might be considered early by some, but once you’ve had Saxo Santa playing and the Christmas lights sparkling, resistance is pretty much futile!”
The event was designed to give customers a relaxed, after-hours introduction to the centre’s festive offerings, and there was little sign of resistance once Saxo Santa appeared.
For some customers, however, embracing Christmas quite so early required a little more persuasion.
One customer said: “I arrived insisting it was far too early for Christmas.
“Ten minutes later I was looking at decorations, so that went well!”
With the department unveiled and the first festive event completed, the team says there is now little chance of putting Christmas quietly back in its box.
The Christmas department is now open, with the preview providing the first opportunity for visitors to see this year’s festive transformation.
