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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Bill McLoughlin

Trafalgar Square's Norway Christmas tree tradition 'under threat'

This year’s Trafalgar Square Christmas tree may be the last to be sent from Norway, reports have claimed. 

The City of Oslo has sent a tree to London every year as a token of gratitude for British support for Norway during the Second World War.

Last week, the 70ft fir was felled in Nordmarka, north of Oslo, ahead of its unveiling in Trafalgar Square.

According to the MailOnline, however, this year’s tree may be the last dispatched from Norway. 

(left to right) The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of Westminster (Cllr Patricia McAllister) and Mayor of Olso (Anne Lindboe) (Sturlason/City of Oslo)

“It’s 50:50 whether another one will be given,” a guest at the felling is alleged to have said. 

A source added that the new city council in Oslo is reconsidering the tradition amid environmental concerns. 

They added: “They're going to evaluate the Christmas tree tradition, but there is a view that it is environmentally unfriendly and outdated.”

This year’s tree will be decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion ahead of the official lights ceremony on December 7. 

A Westminster Council spokesperson said: “We’re very grateful for all the Christmas trees we’ve received from Norway over the years and, of course, we hope this heartwarming tradition continues. As long as the people of Norway are happy to send a tree Westminster, London and the UK will gratefully receive it.”

Oslo Council has been approached for comment. 

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