Why does Norway offer a Christmas tree to London every year?

If you have ever been to London over Christmas then you could not have missed the lights on oxford street and of course the huge Christmas tree standing proud in Trafalgar Square. But it is a little-known fact that this tree is actually a gift from Norway. The very first tree was offered to England back in 1947 and every year since a tree is given to the British people from Norway to thank them for their support during WWII. During the war, Norway was occupied by Germany. The country, which had been at peace for over 150 years, surrendered quickly. But if Hitler thought that getting Norway to collaborate would be easy he was wrong. The king of Norway Haakon VII, in a fraught journey that nearly cost him his life on numerous occasions, fled to London. When did this tradition start? How did the UK support Norway? How does it get to London from Norway? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: How to have an eco-friendly Christmas? Why do Christmas decorations make me feel happier? How can I choose the perfect gift, according to science? A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Amber Minogue. In partnership with upday UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices