FOR the first time in around five years, Hale Barns will have Christmas lights.

The town will have a 17ft real Christmas tree that will be illuminated this weekend ready for the ready for the big Hale Barns Christmas event on December 17.

The tree will be situated on Holy Angels Car Park visible off Hale Road and will be a first for the parish.

Organiser, Max Eden said: ‘It's great to have a Christmas tree back in the village, this month is going to be full of community spirit and joy and so pleased to see the tree delivered today kick starting it."

The tree has been sponsored and funded by local security firm, Benchmark Security who are also sponsoring the Christmas event with Sunrise Senior Living.

Paul Hughes,Managing director of Benchmark Security Group said that the company are delighted to be supporting the local community.

The Christmas event will feature local singer, Wayne Devlin, the Grace Kennedy Irish Dance School, guitarist and singer, Gareth Abbott and music star, Lauren Lovelle. There will be artisan food and drink, gift and craft stalls, kids rides and a free Firework display - entry is also free.

Holy Angels Church will also host a Christmas concert on the same date where Christmas hitmaker Jona Lewie will perform live in the village, with his hits such as Stop the Cavalry and Always in the Kitchen at Parties. He will perform alongside other local talent such as soprano, Scarlett Quigley, Kaleidoscope Big Band, Di Voci Choir and the festival Orchestra.

Tickets for the evening concert can be purchased at halebarnscarnival.co.uk or at the Bulls Head pub in Hale Barns.