A FOREST of Christmas trees decorated by charities and other organisations are to feature in a in a fast-growing festive spectacular.

Northallerton Christmas Tree Festival has gone from strength to strength since it was first launched three years ago.

Last year 3,000 people attended the event, which included live music, food and stalls. Even more visitors are expected to attend the three-day celebration next month.

The trees will be on display from Friday, December 1 until Sunday, December 3 at All Saints CE Church on Northallerton High Street and have been decorated by community groups ranging from Brownies to bell ringers, hospitals, schools and charities.

Each of the 53 trees have been decorated by the groups in their own style to reflect their activities.

Organiser Harry Dyke, said: “It is marvellous to see the community get together and join in the spirit of Christmas.

“We had 50 trees last year so it is good we have been able to squeeze in a few more and provide an even bigger spectacle. There is always a wonderful array of imaginative decorations.”

There will be a prayer tree for people, among other things, to remember family and friends who passed away this year and a tree covered in poppies for the Royal British Legion.

The trees have all been brought by the church from agriculture and garden suppliers Sam Turner and Sons in Northallerton. Each tree is then sponsored by a business organisations and decorated by local groups and charities.

Those taking part this year include Northallerton Bellringers, 2nd Northallerton Brownies, Guide Dogs Dales and District Group, the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton and the Northallerton Musical Theatre Group.

Music will be provided by the renowned Military Wives Choir and others.

Northallerton vicar Revd Fiona Mayer-Jones said: "This event brings together a wide range of organisations in our town.

"Visitors will be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere and the beauty of the trees; but they may also be surprised to discover the range of community activities which go on, many behind the scenes."

There is free admission to the Christmas Tree Festival and it runs from 10am until 5pm on Friday, December 1 and Saturday, December 2 and from 12 noon until 4.30pm on Sunday, December 3.

The church has teamed up with St James’ CE Church in Romanby for the event and there will be a special Christmas tree service at the Northallerton church at 10.45am and 5pm on Sunday.