STRICTLY Come Dancing stars Gemma Atkinson and dance partner Aljaz Skorjanec entered into the festive spirit by decorating Christmas trees for charity.

Bury-born Gemma went along to the Lowry Outlet in Salford Quays to spruce up a glittery Strictly themed tree with ornaments autographed by their fellow contestants.

They joined volunteers from Francis House Children’s Hospice, a Greater Manchester children’s charity, which holds an annual ‘Festival of Trees’ to raise funds in the run up to Christmas.

The Festival includes more than 50 trees, including .a tree of mini cricket bats signed by Lancashire County Cricket Club and the Strictly tree.

The display also includes a Coronation Street signed tree thanks to actress and hospice supporter Sally Dynevor, who asked cast members to contribute their signatures.

Francis House fundraiser, Mary Gillatt said: “This year’s ‘Festival of Trees’ is looking to be our biggest and best yet.

“We’d like to thank Gemma, Sally and the many individuals and companies for their fantastic support.

“We also have a tree decorated by some of the children who use Francis House.

“We hope lots of people will come and see the display and show their support by bidding on a tree.”

Tens of thousands of pounds have been raised over the years by members of the public placing a bid on their favourite tree.

The highest bidder can then take the tree home in time for Christmas.

The display is on until Sunday, December 10.

Francis House Children’s Hospice serves the north west of England providing respite care for children and young people with life-limiting conditions and the necessary support and short-term rest for their families.