PUBLIC Christmas trees in the region will be 10 feet smaller this year.

Each year Scottish Borders Council donates a 30-foot tall pine to every town.

But bosses have been “unable to source” the regular trees ahead of the festive season.

So communities will have to make do with 20-feet tall ones instead.

The announcement was made at last Wednesday’s meeting of Melrose and District Community Council.

Chairman William Windram said: “You might have heard that Scottish Borders Council have been unable to source the same 30-foot Christmas trees this year.

“This means the town’s tree will be 20-feet tall instead as that is the size they have said they can provide.”

However, members of the community council questioned the reasoning behind the change.

Agnes Waldie said: “I am not sure, but I would imagine a 20-foot tall Christmas tree is a little bit cheaper than a 30-foot one.

“I think is quite a big difference, but I hope that we get a nice one and the size difference isn’t too noticeable.”

Robin Chisholm added: “It will slightly affect how the tree is decorated, as there will be fewer gaps in between the lights.”

Melrose Community Council also announced that this year’s Christmas lights are being erected by volunteers from tomorrow (Thursday); and will be taken down on Sunday, January 5.

A spokesperson for Scottish Borders Council told us: "Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we have been unable to source the usual 30-feet Christmas trees for all Borders towns.

“We have, however, been able to source 20-foot trees, which are of a very high quality."