Bordeaux's rejected Christmas tree sold to town in Corrèze
The local mayor bought the traditional decoration after the Bordeaux's eco-friendly mayor refused to have a tree this year
The mayor of a commune in Nouvelle-Aquitaine has bought Bordeaux’s public Christmas tree for €6,000 after Bordeaux's mayor said he no longer wanted “a dead tree”.
The 19-metre tree traditionally decorates Pey Berland square in Bordeaux every Christmas but will instead go to Malemort, in Corrèze.
Bordeaux mayor Pierre Hurmic is a member of eco party Europe Écologie-Les Verts and said: “We will not put dead trees on city squares, especially on Place Pey Berland...This is not at all our concept of revegetation,” FranceInfo reported.
Malemort’s mayor Laurent Darthou saw an opportunity and snapped up the tree.
“As Bordeaux refuses its tree, it will stay in Corrèze in Malemort! Yes, I decided to acquire the Christmas tree, refused by Bordeaux, to put it up in the heart of Malemort. It is a dedicated act that I support fully. The pride of our traditions,” he Tweeted.
Instead of a Christmas tree, Bordeaux will put on live performances.
Mr Hurmic’s decision has caused debate on social media, with some supporting his decision and others deriding him.
“A ridiculous and cartoonish decision, this tree was a joy for children and no "live show" will reflect the magic of Christmas as well.” Elizabeth Touton, an elected official in Bordeaux, Tweeted.
Another Twitter user, identified as Aurélie said: “I am in favour of fun, attractive and cultural activities rather than a tree!”
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