THE annual Helmsley Christmas Tree Festival has branched out with star theme this year.

Featuring 31 trees, which have been individually decorated by businesses and organisations, the festival, which is held at All Saints Church, is open from 10am to 4pm each day until December 17.

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed, which will be split between Helmsley Primary School, Helmsley Community Library, All Saints’ Church and the town’s Christmas lights’ fund.

Jacky Pickering, chairman of Helmsley in Business, said: “The trees really do look fantastic, such a lot of effort has gone into them – from home-baked decorations, to knitted ones. It’s a lovely festive thing to do, and it’s great to see the happiness it’s bringing to people. Thank you to everyone who has been involved.”