A Christmas tree festival in a tiny North Yorkshire village encouraged residents to use their imagination to create the most unusual tree possible.

Creativity and an alternative approach took over for householders in Exelby, near Bedale, with trees ranging from an Elf and Safety tree to a T Rex Tree and a Lego Tree.

In all 17 entries were created and villagers were challenged to vote for their favourite with the results delivered at the annual carol service at the village’s Green Dragon pub.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The Lego Tree won first prize in the Exelby alternative Christmas event

Organiser Maggie Price said she threw down the gauntlet again to residents after the success of the first alternative Christmas tree event last year.

“Throughout the village they decorated trees on a theme of their choice. Many had a play on words that reflected the decoration, and used alternative materials, so we had 17 entries with lots of witty and intriguing titles,” said Maggie.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The elf and Safety Tree

The winner was declared The Lego Tree in Exelby Close. Maggie said many of the trees are being left out as Christmas decorations over the festival season, for anyone who wants to see a different side to the traditional Christmas tree, and they’re already planning next year's alternative event.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Exelby Alternative Christmas Tree