THE “Christmas capital of the north” is gearing up for its annual festivities.

Preparations for Dalton Christmas tree festival have started with the first trees being adorned with special decorations.

Each one is decorated by exhibitors who can decide which charity money from individual collection boxes goes to.

The event, a staple on the Christmas events calendar in the town, is in its 17th year.

Residents of the town, charities and schools have all got involved to furnish the trees with designs of their choice.

The festival will open to the public on Sunday, the same day as Dalton’s Christmas lights switch-on.

The theme for this year is “What a wonderful world”.

Organiser Syliva Stoker said: “There is a huge variety of trees that are going to be part of this year’s festival.

“Everyone has interpreted this theme in their own way and it’s going to be great for everyone who comes to see them.”

Dalton Councillor Wendy Maddox said: “Dalton is the Christmas capital of the north.

“This is a big event for people in the town and I am sure it will be interesting experience for everyone who goes along to see the trees.

“It has been running for a while now and has firmly become a Dalton tradition.

“They always manage to raise lots of money and I know it will be a great event this year.”

Sunday will see the tree festival display at St Mary’s Church open at 2pm.

The Christmas lights switch-on will then start at 4.45pm in Tudor Square with a performance from Dalton Town Band.

A Christmas parade will leave Tudor Square at 5.15pm led this year by St Andrews Pipe Band and feature Father Christmas himself, whose sleigh will be led by Cairngorm reindeer.

After that the circus performers and street entertainment will delights crowds at Market Place.

The tree festival will be open to the public until Sunday December 30.

In another Christmas tradition for Dalton will be the shop decoration competition. In December judges will scour the town for the best shop front Christmas display. Dalton’s schools will also be holding their carol services throughout the month.