A CHURCH near Northallerton will be looking particularly festive this weekend.

St Helen’s Church in Ainderby Steeple is holding a special Christmas Tree Festival this year.

Local groups and residents are joining together to fill the church with trees of every variety – and more than 30 families, charities and businesses will be taking part over Saturday and Sunday, December 7 and 8.

Visitors are invited to come and view the trees, support St Helen’s and enjoy refreshments on Saturday from 5.30pm to 8pm and Sunday from 12.30pm to 4pm. Admission is free.

The church is also holding its Christingle service at 4pm on Sunday.