THE FORESTRY Commission is preparing its sustainably-grown Christmas trees ahead of the festive rush.

The government agency grows approximately 12,000 Christmas trees at Dalby Forest near Pickering at North Yorkshire.

From there, some of the Norway Spruces, Nordmann Firs and Lodgepole Pines are transported to its sales centres around the country.

But people can also visit the woodland and pick a tree in person from November 24 or select one online from the Forest Commission's website and have it delivered straight to their homes.

Those visiting can also take part in Christmas activities at Dalby Forest from mid-November.

From December 1 the Forestry Commission will also be selling its sustainable, British-grown trees at Hamsterley Forest in County Durham and Rothbury in Northumberland.

There will be children’s activities on offer, festive workshops and the chance for youngsters to meet Santa in his grotto.

With every purchase of a Christmas tree, customers will also be given a free Christmas tree sapling to look after and grow themselves, in a bid to encourage people to celebrate Christmas sustainably.

For more details visit the Forestry Commission's website at; forestry.gov.uk