A NORWEGIAN Christmas tree is set to be illuminated to welcome the festive season to Newcastle Civic Centre on Thursday.

The Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Councillor Linda Wright, will be leading a special ceremony at 6pm with the Mayor of Bergen.

Every year a tree is sent as a gift as a gesture of goodwill by the people of Newcastle’s twin city.

Councillor Wright said: “The Bergen tree is a symbol of our ongoing friendship between the people of Bergen and the people of Newcastle.

“Its arrival in the city signals the start of the countdown to Christmas and puts passers-by into the festive mood.

“I’m delighted to welcome the Mayor of Bergen, Marte Mjøs Persen, to the Civic Centre for this special ceremony.

“On behalf of the people of Newcastle, I would like to extend our warm thanks and gratitude to our friends in Bergen.”

The evening will include a traditional carol service inside the Grand Entrance from 5.30pm and celebrations will move outside to see the illumination of the tree.

The event is free to attend.