A CHRISTMAS tree has been donated to Hexham.

Wood-based manufacturer Egger, which has been donating trees since 2008, has placed a 30ft Sitka Spruce tree from Kielder Forest in front of Hexham Abbey.

A dedicated 'Christmas team' positioned the tree with the help of a 50ft crane.

Hexham Mayor Derek Kennedy said: "Every year, EGGER donates a Sitka Spruce from Kielder to form a central part of the town’s Christmas celebrations.

"This year, the tree is even bigger than before, and we hope it will bring plenty of festive cheer to the town centre."

Egger is also donating a festive banner for the Christmas tree's base, on which children of employees have drawn their favourite Christmas tradition.

The banner will be revealed at the Christmas tree light switch-on on November 25.

After Christmas, the tree will be recycled at the Hexham factory and used to make Egger products.

It comes after the factory announced Natural Ability as its headline charity.

Based on Anick Grange Road, across the road from Egger, Natural Ability offers services for people with learning disabilities who enjoy being outdoors and active. The charity was nominated by employees.

Natural Ability will receive a donation of £10,000 per year for a two-year term.