A FIRE station has proudly taken delivery of a large tree to get its festivities underway.

Entering full-swing into the Christmas spirit, firefighters in Shoreham have received a six-foot Nordmann fir, which is a popular species because of its good needle retention.

The tree was donated by Mayberry Garden Centre as part of its community involvement programme.

While many are enjoying the holiday season, the fire service also reminds householders to ensure their chimney is safe.

They remind people to sweep their chimneys regularly, do not overfill a fire grate in case coals fall out, use a spark guard and not to place furniture too close to the fire.

A chimney fire can spread quickly into the rest of the house, they warn.