VISITORS to Otley have been enjoying the magical glow of 43 Christmas trees.

The town’s eighth Christmas Tree Festival, which opened on Wednesday, December 12, concluded at Otley All Saints Parish Church last weekend.

The event was supported by daily music - including live performances - and Stephen H Smith’s Garden Centre, which donated the trees. Charities and community groups decorated the entries and placed donation buckets beneath their trees, which were admired by many visitors - including the town’s MP, Alex Sobel.

He said: “It was a huge pleasure to visit the festival. You could see the love and effort in each tree design, which were a credit to all the great charities represented.

“I was warmed by the mince pies, the wonderful singing of the Courthouse Choir, and the community spirit that embodies the festive season. It brought the magic of Christmas to Otley.”

Town Council Chair Councillor Ray Georgeson added: “I popped in on Saturday. It was very busy with a wonderful display of trees, and the music - from the Madrigal Singers - was excellent too. Congratulations to the church, organisers Tim and Helen Wilkinson and everyone involved.”