In 2018 Southport BID brought an innovative new tree to Southport that proved a huge hit with many visitors to the town. Hundreds of images of the tree and it’s beautiful light display were shared across social media as visitors took selfies and one caught the attention of officials in Milan. After seeing one particular image by local photographer, Matt Rycraft, Milan Council contacted the tree’s manufacturers to request the same structure as their Christmas centre piece to stand outside their Cathedral this festive season.
The 60’ tree, introduced for 2018, proved a huge talking point, with families and visitors enjoying sharing videos and images of the displays. The bespoke tree, which features a range of intricate light shows, is open so passers-by can walk inside its conical structure for even more breath-taking visuals. Liverpool’s own BID have also made plans to a version of the tree this Christmas too now.
Susannah Porter, Southport BID’s Interim Chair, is thrilled the tree has sparked interest internationally, “We are really excited to hear that Milan and Liverpool are set to have trees like ours! We took a huge risk on something new and exciting for the town last year, that would bring visitors in and prove an exciting feature. 1,000s came into the town centre to walk underneath and take selfies, which all got shared – keeping Southport’s profile high. It just goes to show the impact and reach of social media and how being innovative can help get Southport talked about, putting us on the map!”
The tree will officially be lit at the end of the BID’s big switch on event, Sunday the 17th of November. The event will also reveal the BID’s new lighting scheme for 2019 after a celebrity packed show. Line up announcement’s for the event are coming soon! To hear announcements first and for more information on all projects please follow us on Facebook or Twitter
OTS News on Social Media