IPSWICH has been given a subtle reminder that Santa is on his way with the arrival of The Evening Star Christmas tree.The 40ft tree was transported from Rendlesham Forest to the Cornhill at noon yesterday and hoisted into place by a team of three from Animations and Lighting.

IPSWICH has been given a subtle reminder that Santa is on his way with the arrival of The Evening Star Christmas tree.

The 40ft tree was transported from Rendlesham Forest to the Cornhill at noon yesterday and hoisted into place by a team of three from Animations and Lighting.

John Loades, of the Westerfield-based company, said: "It's a nice tree and is a nice shape. It has a star blazing from the top and looks pretty impressive.

"The feedback we've had from people so far has been very favourable," he added.

The tree, which has 2,000 lights, will be unveiled along with the rest of the Christmas lights, sponsored by TXU Energi, at around 6.45pm on Thursday by Ipswich swimmer Karen Pickering, who is to do the grand switch-on.

Austen Dack, Evening Star brand manager, said: "It's a present to the town from The Evening Star. We hope it makes the town look brighter at this festive time of year.

"We're looking forward to it being switched on Thursday and hope lots of people will go along to see it."

BBC Radio Suffolk is staging a roadshow from 5pm on the Cornhill, which will be presented by Mark Murphy. Co-op Juniors, Father Christmas, Paul King, winner of Radio Suffolk's search for a star competition, and local band Plush will all be making appearances.

As in previous years, collection boxes will be placed around the tree for donations to The Evening Star's Christmas Appeal.