VISITORS from across the region and beyond are expected to enjoy the 2015 Otley Christmas Tree Festival.

The free attraction, now in its fifth year, will once again see an array of specially-decorated trees set up in All Saints Parish Church.

More than 40 local charities and community groups are due to take part, with each entering a tree and – optional – donation bucket.

The festival will be declared open at noon on December 9 by MP Greg Mulholland, accompanied by Guiseley Brass Band. It will then run from 10am to 6pm daily through to December 12.

Organiser and former Otley Chamber of Trade president, Tim Wilkinson, said: "The first four years of the event have really caught the imagination, with about 3,000 people attending last year.

"New groups attending this year include Askwith with Weston Women’s Institute, Otley Chevin Socialites, Otley Children’s Centre, Scope, Wild Goose Wellbeing, Woolpack Arts & Music Studio and Yorkshire Cancer Research."

The festival will also include a variety of seasonal music, including performances from Chevin Handbell Ringers, Otley Ukulele Orchestra and A Capella Choir, Otley Townswomen’s Guild Choir, and St Joseph's and All Saints Primary School choirs, with Martin Campey at the keyboard.

lAn evening concert featuring the Chippendale Singers and Westgate Primary School Choir will be held from 7pm on December 11. Tickets cost £5, including light refreshments, and are available from Jan Wilkinson on 01943 461318.