As Woolworths faces what could be its final festive season, a Christmas fairy has come to light as a reminder of a happier time for the store.

It was just before Christmas almost half-a-century ago when a young couple and their six-month-old baby daughter walked the four-mile journey from their home in Mersham to Woolworths in Ashford, where they bought a fairy which still tops the family Christmas tree today.

When the Smith family bought the fairy 47 years ago, Woolies occupied the same position in the High Street as it does today.

In 1961, the Smiths paid 2s 6d (12½p) for the fairy, the equivalent of about £1.90 today.

Pat Smith, who now lives in Willesborough, has given the 47-year-old fairy a few changes of clothes over the years.

Mrs Smith said: “She’s a bit tatty and her wand is a bit diddly, but she’s still here.”