A WHITCHURCH garden centre is expecting 'good sales' of Christmas trees this winter, despite fears elsewhere of a shortage.

Warnings have been made across the industry for people to order Christmas trees sooner than usual, with a shortage of lorry drivers and Covid restrictions having the potential to impact festive preparations.

But despite these concerns, Holly Farm Garden Centre, based near Prees, will be stocked and ready for the festive period.

Jonathan Allen, business owner, says as his centre grows its own trees, they are protected from any potential shortages.

He said: "Last year was very busy for Christmas, sales were good and we'd anticipate the same this year.

"Last year people weren't going away because of Covid, families that might have visit their relatives stayed at home instead, so that contributed.

"But am I anticipating a rush, not really.

"From what I understand, the issue is for garden centres buying in, if they're coming from abroad then they might get held up.

"We're grateful again to be self-sufficient."

Chris Bonnett, the founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk is expecting to see demand soar this year.

But he says a shortage of lorry drivers and potential Covid restrictions could play havoc with Christmas preparations.

He said: "The last few years have played havoc with the Christmas tree market.

"Mild winters in Scandinavian countries have made it more complicated to fell trees.

"Add in the Covid restrictions in place last year and the current shortage of lorry drivers and you can see why we're concerned that there could be a shortage of trees.

"A Christmas tree is an essential part of the festivities, not just on Christmas Day but in the run up – picking the tree, squeezing it into the car and decorating ahead of the celebrations.

"This year it'll mean even more after the locked down restrictions of last year which is why we're already seeing a surge in the number of customers searching for Christmas trees.

"Hopefully between now and December, things will improve."

Jonathan says although his business is covered for products it grows, things that are ordered in still face delays.

He added: "The flow of stock into the shop is difficult, things are not turning up and being late."

Another popular Pick Your Own product, pumpkins, is also on Jonathan's agenda, and he has a bumper crop this year to keep up with potential demand.

He added: "Pumpkins are going well, we've got lots.

"We grew more because the market's going very well.

"People are asking for them now, but I don't know if they'll keep, we might have some very gummy looking pumpkins come Halloween!"