A HEARTLESS thief scaled a six foot fence to steal a Christmas tree from a Northwich bakery.

Lisa Russett, who makes cakes for the stars, was planning to donate the potted real pine tree to the Christmas Tree Festival at St Helens Church.

The mum-of-two couldn't believe her eyes when she noticed the tree had disappeared from the back of her shop, Pretty Princess Cakes and Bakes on Post Office Place.

"It is with great sadness and disappointment that I have to report that someone has stolen my Christmas tree from outside my shop," said Lisa, 40, from Winnington.

Northwich Guardian:

Some of Lisa's fun-filled creative festive cakes

"I'm not sure what sort of low life would do such a thing but to scale a six foot fence to take a three-foot Christmas tree is an awful thing to do.

"The only thing I can think is that poor 'Prickles', the tiny little £10 real pine tree which was destined for St Helens charity tree weekend, has fallen victim to Northwich's very own Grinch.

"Someone has gone to great lengths to steal it, risking pointy pine needles and broken limbs so if it means that much to you I hope you're happy.

"I am trying to look on the bright side and not let it dampen my Christmas spirit. The tragic event has pushed me into festive overdrive."

Northwich Guardian:

Lisa joins Santa and a snowman to greet customers at her bakery over Christmas

Lisa has erected an inflatable Santa arch outside her shop and will be serving mulled wine and liqueurs with her December alcohol licence.

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The baker, crowned cupcake queen of Liverpool, started baking before she started school with her late nan Daisy Ince, who died aged 94.

Northwich Guardian:

Lisa bakes all sorts of colourful festive cakes

She has baked for Beyonce's tour, made cakes for Jordan's hen party and reality TV stars and celebrities.

"I have always wanted to open a bakery," said Lisa, whose dream came true when she opened her bakery and desert shop on the walkway between Sainsbury's and the library in October 2018.

Northwich Guardian:

Lisa's novelty festive cup cakes

"People in Northwich are really lovely and have supported me, "said Lisa. "Weekends are booming and I'm now doing outside catering as well at festivals and events."

Lisa is hosting a Christmas fun day on Saturday, December 14 with special appearances by festive unicorns and the Grinch.

Glitter tattoos, face painting and hair braids promise plenty of entertainment for all the family.