Campaign to move town's 'hidden' Christmas tree

A petition to relocate the Christmas tree to the town centre has been signed by 650 people

A campaign to move a town's "hidden" Christmas tree to a more prominent location has begun.

More than 750 people have signed a petition asking for Hartlepool's festive tree to be moved from behind the church on Church Street to the Cenotaph on Victoria Road.

Campaigner Denis Lindridge said the tree was too "out of the way" for locals to enjoy.

Hartlepool Borough Council said it was too late to take action this year but would "consider" moving the tree next year.

Petitioner Denis Lindridge said local people felt strongly about moving the tree

Mr Lindridge said it was difficult for large groups to gather round the tree to sing carols in its current spot.

"Wouldn't it be nice for people to gather round - schools groups who've shown interest?

"The tree is our tree, the people of Hartlepool, it's not the people in the council - we feel quite strongly about it."

The tree is usually installed behind a Victorian church near a road

The borough council said the petition was being considered.

"Given that the installation of the town's Christmas lights is already under way and plans for our switch-on event are well advanced, we do not realistically have the time to construct the new pit that would be required for the tree if it were to be relocated this year," a council spokesperson said.

"However, we are happy to consider moving it to a new location from next year."