By Isle of Wight Observer
This December, Cowes shoppers have been treated to a variety of festive shop window displays, but one has really captured the community’s attention – an 8ft Christmas tree, made entirely from up-cycled car hubcaps, perched above Medina Bookshop.
Created by bookshop manager, Paul Armfield, the innovative tree sparkles like oversized snowflakes with its silver geometric patterns. Paul explained, “I wanted to create something impactful and inexpensive. I realised how much modern hubcaps resemble snowflakes. A quick visit to Cliftongrade scrap-yard, for 28 used hub-caps, some strong rope, and cable ties was all I needed. Though initially doubtful, I’m thrilled with the response – it’s wonderful to see it bring smiles to people’s faces.”
However, with Storm Darragh battering the Island last weekend, Paul prepared for the worst. “I was so relieved to find it wind-blown but intact on Saturday morning,” he shared.
The festive season at Medina Bookshop wraps up on December 23, at 6pm, with a carol concert, featuring the Medina Community Choir, held under the dazzling hub-cap tree at the bottom of Market Hill. Mince pies and mulled wine at the bookshop will follow.
Don’t miss the chance to soak up the Christmas spirit and see this unique local creation for yourself – it’s the very definition of the cultural hub(cap) of Cowes.