Christmas tree left untouched for FORTY years as father-of-six waits for family to be reunited

A Christmas tree covered in tinsel has remained intact for 40 years as an 89-year-old man waits for his family to be reunited.

Almost miraculously, the needles are still attached to the tree, which resides in the living room of Neil Olson, of Wausau, Wisconsin.

He put it up in 1974 when two of the sons were serving in Vietnam.

Mr Olson vowed to only take it down when he and all six of his sons are present to celebrate Christmas - but he is still waiting.
The father, who was speaking to Daily Herald Media, said: "Most of 'em don't last but the needles have kept on for a reason, it's supernatural."
All his sons are now aged in their 50s or 60s.

Five of his boys live nearby and often visit at this time of year, but the eldest, who is disabled and lives in Washington, has so far been unable to return for the big day.

"I bet you is my sixth boy comes home, the needles will drop right off," he added.

"It's part of the furniture now, like family. I'd hate to take it down."

Mr Olson is also convinced he holds the record for longest standing, all natural Christmas tree.