The moment I stepped onto the grounds of Ivy Cottage Tree Farm, I felt that first tingly surge of Christmas spirit - despite December still being a few days away. The scent of pine mingled with the lush evergreen canopies made me feel as though I was wandering towards Santa's workshop, and I found myself wishing for a sprinkling of snow.
After voicing this opinion to yard manager Sarah Fisher, she wasn't so sure. Sarah explained the cold weather often brings out difficult customers, who request workers to clean the snowflakes off their freshly-cut trees. She's also used to unprepared visitors arriving in gleaming white trainers at this time of year. Looking down at my walking boots, I feel relieved that I don't fall into that category.
