Dobbies in Moreton Park is giving away free Christmas trees.

The garden centre has partnered with Needlefresh, a sustainable real tree grower, to donate trees to schools and nurseries.

The aim is for the trees to be decorated for the festive season.

Dobbies Christmas trees are 'sustainably grown in environmentally managed fields across Scotland.'

A small growing team plants, prunes, and harvests each tree by hand to ensure the surrounding environment, wildlife, and plants are looked after.

Each tree has a tag with a special code, meaning you can track where it was grown.

George Hood, managing director of Needlefresh, said: "We hope that local schools and nurseries get in touch to apply for a real tree this Christmas, taking the opportunity to come together for decorating, making memories for pupils, teachers and parents alike."

For those who are successful in their application, Nigel Lawton, Dobbies’ plant buyer, shared his top tips on picking the right Christmas tree.

Mr Lawton said: "Buying a Christmas tree is a cherished tradition that is at the heart of festive celebrations.

"There’s nothing quite like the scent of a real tree, and decorating really marks the start of the season.

"Preparation and care are key to getting the best out of your real tree Christmas.

"Measure your space before you come to Dobbies’ Moreton Park store and take the tape measure with you to make sure you aren’t buying a tree that will be too big for the space in question.

"It’s important to think about the tree shape you would like based on the space that you have.

"If you would like a classic Christmas tree opt for a Nordmann Fir or if space is limited, the Nordman Fir ‘Slim’ could be the right choice for you.

"You can still have a six-foot tree but it takes up a much smaller footprint in your room.

"Make sure to find a spot that is away from a direct heat source as this can quickly dry your tree out.

"Get your freshly cut tree into a stand that holds water and make sure it is topped up regularly to keep the needles hydrated."

Applications are now welcome and entries close at 5pm on Wednesday, November 7.

Successful applicants will be contacted in mid-November and invited to collect their tree at Dobbies Moreton Park Christmas Shopping Night on November 21, in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust.

For more information about Dobbies Community Christmas Trees, visit www.dobbies.com/community-christmas-trees.