Children from Strong Close Nursery decorated Christmas trees at Keighley’s Salvation Army headquarters on Monday.

Five youngsters enjoyed beautifying the trees, which were provided through sponsorship money from businesses and individual donors.

Proceeds from the initiative help pay for food parcels and essentials like hats and clothes for needy people.

Salvation Army spokeswoman Chris Bown thanked everyone who offered money.

She said among those who donated were the businesses MTM Cleaning, PR Milk Deliveries, Albert Platt Funeral Directors and Nasaleze International.

She added: “It’s a nice, fun way to raise money and the kids love it — we enjoy having them here. This also brings in a few different people who might not normally donate to us.”

l A Christmas tree is once again on display at David Gallagher Funeral Directors, in Utley — with white lights in memory of all the deceased the firm has cared for during the year.

The tree will be on show at the Airedale House, Skipton Road, premises throughout this month.

David said: “We feel it is important for the families who we have cared for throughout 2009 to know that they are being remembered by us and when they pass our premises will see a tiny light which represents their loved one.”

David and Adele Gallagher and children Sam and Harry have chosen to donate £1,000 to Haworth Riding for Disabled. The charity — which was formed in 2001 with one rider, one pony and three volunteers — now has nine horses and 50 volunteers and caters for 150 riders, both adults and children.

l Keighley people are again being offered a seasonal way to remember those they’ve lost.

The Knowle Funeral Home is providing a memorial Christmas tree at its Victoria Road premises.

It is inviting people to decorate it with memorial cards in memory of those close to them who have died.

The tree was lit on Tuesday and people can visit any Monday to Friday until Twelfth Night, from 8.30am-5pm.

The Knowle will host a Christmas memorial and carol service on December 17, at 7pm.

The service will be conducted by the Rev Alf Waite, from Oxenhope Methodist Church, retired ministers the Rev Michael Chapman and Father Jack Kennedy and Captain Kenny Gardner, from the Salvation Army. Seasonal refreshments will be available.