THE 2016 Otley Christmas Tree Festival will begin next week.

Thousands of people are expected to visit the annual event, which this year features more than 40 specially decorated trees, at All Saints Parish Church.

Free to enter and organised by Otley Chamber of Trade member Tim Wilkinson, the festival gives community groups and charities - who place collection buckets beneath their trees - a chance to raise money while promoting their work.

The sparkly fun begins at noon on Wednesday, December 7 when Otley Bellman Terry Ford, accompanied by members of Guiseley Brass Band, will declare proceedings underway.

Viewing will be available until 6pm on the opening day and then from 10am to 6pm each day up until the festival's conclusion on Saturday, December 10.

The trees will remain in place on Sunday, December 11 and can be viewed following the church's Sunday Service and at 4pm, when it holds a Christmas Tree Carols Service.

A variety of live seasonal music, from local choirs, schools and musicians will also feature over the four days.

To find out more visit otleychristmastreefestival.co.uk .