Hartlepool's town centre Christmas tree is to move to a new location this year following an 875 signature petition. Civic centre chiefs have confirmed the festive tree will sit in front of the Hartlepool Art Gallery, in Church Square, on the pedestrian area heading towards Middleton Grange Shopping Centre.

Hartlepool Borough Council leader Cllr Pamela Hargreaves said the move means the tree will be in a "central location" and be "visible to everybody who drives through our fantastic town." It had previously been placed behind the gallery, which is located in the Christ Church building, on the small grassed area opposite The Ward Jackson pub.

Last year Rossmere resident Denis Lindridge launched an online petition calling for it to be moved to a more suitable spot - arguing it was diffic

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