MORE than 50 Christmas trees provided festive cheer a-plenty when they lit-up a North-East church.

Scores of visitors flocked through the doors of St Mary’s Parish Church, in Barnard Castle, over the weekend, to see its spectacular Christmas tree festival, which takes place every two years.

Local businesses, schools, nursing homes and community groups sponsor and decorate each tree, many with homemade decorations or items relating to their trade.

Reverend Alec Harding said: “People have put a huge amount of effort into this event.

“For many, it sets the mood for Christmas.

"It’s lovely for the church to have the support that we do.”

Curate Andy Miller described the festival as having something to interest all generations and said: “It takes a lot of effort on a lot of people’s parts to organise this Christmas tree festival but it is a nice way to look towards Christmas.”

Church warden, John Emerson, added: “It has been a marvellous event.

“The community and the church have got involved and worked together to create this beautiful experience.”

The event culminated with a well-attended carol service among the trees this evening (Sunday).