A NEW Christmas tree has been put in place in St Helens town centre ahead of next week’s switch-on.

Teams installed the replacement tree on Tuesday night after the previous one had been considered “sub standard”.

Pictures of the original tree had been shared on social media, sparking criticism.

But the council said the issue had already been identified following delivery in the square and that the supplier was due to change it.

In a message posted on social media, Rainford Christmas Treeland, which supplied the tree, wrote: “Last night the team were out until midnight putting up the new Christmas Tree in St Helens Town Centre.

“We know the other one was not up to scratch and hence why we replaced it as quickly as possible!

“Hopefully this brings a slight bit more positivity to the town now.

St Helens Star:

“If anyone has any questions about Christmas Trees this size and wants to know it’s growing process let us know in the comments below and we will answer them all for you.”

The Christmas lights are due to be switched on in St Helens on Saturday, November 26.

The council has secured business sponsorship for the new tree.