A Northumbrian Christmas tree has reached its destination after travelling a 330-mile trip to London to become one of the most iconic symbols of the festive season.

The 40ft Sitka spruce was chosen by experts from Forestry England from among the 150 million trees in Kielder Forest, Northumberland, to make its 330-mile journey to London and stand at the foot of Big Ben throughout the festive period for its 20-year annual tradition.

The tree was felled on Friday, November 17, and then started its journey to the heart of London after November 24.

Thousands saw the lights switched on yesterday (Tuesday, December 5) next to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

The tree, planted about 40 years ago, makes up a total of 180 civic Christmas trees from Kielder set to travel across the UK, with specimens also chosen to bring Christmas cheer in Ipswich, Sheffield and Stockton on Tees.

Once the tree was chosen, skilled foresters from Forestry England carefully cut it down to ensure it didn’t get damaged. 

Kielder Forest is also thinking ahead to ensure a consistent supply of very tall, high-quality trees. New seedlings will be planted to restock the forest for future Christmas trees, as well as provide a significant supply of locally sourced timber.

Richard Cooper, Beat Forester at Forestry England, said: “After the careful work my team and I did to fell this magnificent Sitka spruce tree in Kielder Forest, it’s wonderful to see it lit up and looking so festive outside the Palace of Westminster.

"After its 300-mile journey from our corner of Northumberland to the heart of London, it looks spectacular and is bound to bring festive cheer to the many people who will have a chance to admire it over the Christmas period.”

At the time of the felling, he added: "It’s not just about how good it looks in the forest, it’s a real skill to bring it down safely and transport it all the way to London without causing any damage.

"So many people from all over the world will see it lit up, and I’m really proud to see something from our corner of Northumberland take pride in place"