This tradition is not new in this village in the Ardennes. Joël Richard has been the mayor of Harcy since 2001. And every year since his election, the elected official offers a Christmas tree to residents who wish one. Only here, as reported The Ardennesthis gift is not totally selfless…
In the columns of our colleagues, the mayor declared: “I admit it, I am a Christmas lover”. He also adds that before 2001, “everyone decorated a little in their own corner, without harmony”. Faced with this “lack of coordination”, the elide then had this idea.
The “Harçouilles” hold on to this tradition
Thus, every year, at the beginning of November, the residents of Harcy receive a coupon in their mailbox, which they must return to the town hall in the following month. Those who respond positively to Joël Richard's proposal receive the conifer the last week of November, directly to their home.
On the budget side, Joël Richard ensures that this initiative does not harm the finances of the Ardennes village. Only 300 euros would be spent on the trees at a nurseryman and the operation would only mobilize an agent and a truck for one day. However, be careful, our colleagues also specify that at the beginning of December, the town hall carries out a check to verify that the tree is placed in front of the house, and not inside. Beware of those who would like to defraud!
