TWINKLING trees have returned to help light up people’s lives.

The Christmas Tree Festival at Hope United Reformed Church in Weymouth is back for its eighth year.

Organisers are hoping that people will still make the effort to visit the festival, despite there being no Christmas events at Brewer’s Quay, which is closed for redevelopment.

Some 24 charities will benefit from donations from festive visitors who give to the cause of their choice after seeing the spectacular light display at the Trinity Street church.

Each visitor to the two-week festival will be able to direct their money to a tree’s individual collection tin.

Church elder Geoff Tizzard-King said: “The beautifully decorated church looks spectacular and the Christmas trees sponsoring 24 charities create a dazzling, almost magical atmosphere. It is well worth a visit.”

Each year around £1,000 has been raised for the charities and a cheque presentation ceremony is held.

Some of the Christmas entertainment that used to be put on at Brewers Quay will be on show.

Live entertainment throughout the day will include organ recitals, adult choirs, a light jazz ensemble and school choirs that used to sing at Brewers Quay.

Refreshments and hot soup and rolls are available on weekdays.

A major highlight of the festival is a concert by Weymouth Operatic Society called A Musical Christmas.

All trees for the festival are provided at cost price by Pete Hyde of Trinity Street Christmas Trees.

Mr Tizzard-King said: “The festival is a great event which deserves public support.”

The festival is open at the church in Trinity Street every day between 10.30am and 5pm until December 16.

Tickets for A Musical Christmas’ cost £6 and will include a glass of mulled wine.

The concert runs from today until Friday and tickets are available on the door from 7pm or from The T Shop from Thursday to Sunday.