It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Grimsby

As the festive countdown begins, Grimsby has welcomed its spectacular Christmas tree back to St. James Square in the centre of town.

The 26-foot-tall Nordmann Fir tree was handpicked from the local Strawson Woodland at their plantation near Louth, thanks to a generous donation from Newlincs Development Ltd, North East Lincolnshire’s waste management contractor.

Newlincs operate the community recycling centres in Grimsby and Immingham, and the energy from waste plant in Stallingborough.

Sharon Hunt, Operations Director of Newlincs, said: ‘‘We are always happy to support the residents of North East Lincolnshire, particularly during the festive period.  This year we are also having a large Christmas tree at the Grimsby tip in addition to the Christmas up-cycled decorations that we do each year – hopefully the display will be our best yet!’’

Lights will be installed on the tree in the coming days before the Great Grimsby Christmas Festival in St James Square later this week (Saturday 25 November, 12pm to 6pm).

The exciting event will include a festive market, the perfect opportunity to pick up unique gifts from local traders, tuck into delicious festive treats and specials from the pop-up food traders.

The main stage has live music plus interactive entertainment throughout the day, including a festive puppet show, a music tech showcase and acoustic renditions of your favourite Christmas songs, all hosted by Grimsby resident and stand up comedian Lauren Smith.

After an afternoon of fun, join us to await the parade starting at Top Town Market from 4:30pm, ending in St. James Square ready for our Christmas Tree Lighting with a guest appearance from the panto cast of Cinderella, followed by music with the Cleethorpes Brass Band.

Other festive activities taking place include the opening of the Elf Station in Freshney Place Shopping Centre and a charity gift fair for St Andrew’s Hospice being hosted by Grimsby Top Town Market.

For more details on Christmas events across North East Lincolnshire, visit http://www.discovernortheastlincolnshire.co.uk/christmasingrimsby/.