A CHURCH's 200th anniversary celebrations are set to be brightened up with a Christmas tree festival.

Pleasington Priory is set to host the four-day event as part of the programme to mark the grade one listed landmark's bicentennial.

Mayor of Blackburn Cllr Jim Shorrock is set to launch the festival on Thursday, November 28, at 7.30pm, with Blackburn Music Society performing.

The following Friday sees music from St Paul's RC Primary and The Singing Circle, with Little Voices, Bernese School of Theatre and Dance and Alan Briggs pencilled in for Saturday.

Several artistes are also scheduled for Sunday, including Richard Moss, Gabriella Passerini and the Mellor Choir.

An Advent Songs of Praise style concert rounds off the fundraiser at 6.30pm.

Plans are in place for a raffle, with festive refreshments available. The Pleasington Priory Gin will also be on sale. Tickets are £5 with under 11s going free with an adult.