People can kick-start festive preparations by displaying their very own Christmas tree creation at the Red House Glass Cone this winter.

The Christmas Tree Festival, which runs from Sunday November 17, will transform the Wordsley visitor attraction into a winter wonderland.

Groups and businesses are asked to provide uniquely decorated trees for the display, which will help to raise money for the Mayor of Dudley’s chosen charities through donations. Anyone submitting a tree is asked to make a £5 donation which will help raise money Macmillan Cancer Support and The Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and Black Country.

Anyone in the local community is welcome to take part. Previous participants include schools, brownie groups, local businesses, churches and charities. Councillor Ian Kettle, cabinet member responsible for tourism, said:

“The Christmas Tree Festival at the cone is a lovely way to get into the festive spirit and give local businesses, schools and charities to promote their work while also raising money for the mayor’s charities.

“People can apply now for a place at the end of November and I hope that even more people take part this year."

Any organisation that wishes to display a tree must apply before November 3. For more information, including guidelines on how a tree should be presented, contact 01384 815571.

The festival runs from 17 November to 5 January. The cone will be closed 24 December until 3 January 2020.