One Stoke-on-Trent area is not celebrating Christmas this year; there is no Christmas tree and no decorations.

Now shoppers in Meir have voiced their disappointment over the forgotten town.

For the past seven years, local community led group, Meir Matters have organised a Christmas tree for the town.

However, this year the group opted not to have one in order to concentrate on the group's priorities. 

Typically having a tree and the lights costs a minimum of £1,500 and even more if big events are held on the car park as they have been in previous years.

This has meant the community group has had to think about how they spend their money.

Michelle Swift, founder of Meir Matters said: "You know what's going on in the world at the moment, people are struggling to buy groceries and pay the bills and we've had to think what are our priorities and what's more important.

"Spending £1,500 on a Christmas tree or feeding people and helping them to live and deal with life."

Shoppers in Meir have responded to the lack of tree and festive decorations.

Ian Townley said: "It is disappointing walking around this time of year and not seeing anything. But I think it can be expected because of how expensive things are and how much effort it takes."

Margaret Bird from Uttoxeter said: "I don't normally come here for various reasons but on one hand I can see why it would be enjoyable to see, especially for younger people but I don't think it's necessarily important."

It is also shop owners who have spoken out.

Julie Parish from Parish Gifts and Cards commented: "It's sad that the council won't contribute towards a Christmas tree and as a community we all have to contribute to help them out. It's like Meir is forgotten about really."

Meir Matters have produced a 2026 calendar, which is full of faces from the area. They cost £10 each and all proceeds go towards the community pantry to help local families and individuals in hard times.

Calendars are available to buy from the community lounge at Meir Matters of Swiftys on Sandon Road.