The Norwich Lanes held a festive fair in Upper St Giles last night, joined by one of the stars of this year's Norwich Theatre Royal pantomime.

David Gant, who plays the role of Professor Leonardo in Sleeping Beauty, was the guest of honour to officially start the NORWICHRISTMAS Tree Art Trail and soak up the atmosphere of the fair.

From now until the twelfth night of Christmas – Thursday, January 5 – the city centre will be home to 21, individually designed, 7.5ft high wooden Christmas trees. The aim is for the campaign, organised by the Norwich City Centre Partnership, to add to the excitement of Christmas in Norwich by helping children and families to explore the city by looking for the trees on the special map.

Money donated by each of the businesses hosting a tree will go to Norwich Open Christmas, which provides lunch and entertainment for those who are homeless or on their own on Christmas Day.

Mr Gant marked the opening of the Upper St Giles and the official start of the Tree Art Trail at 6pm last night by stamping the very first trail map in a ceremony outside The Rub store.

He said: 'I really like Norwich; I've been here twice before and I'm normally here for seven or eight weeks, and I feel like I fit in here, I like the atmosphere of the city.

'I've stayed close to this area [Upper St Giles] before and have been wined and dined in some of the lovely restaurants along the street. So to be involved with the magic of Christmas here, with the church all lit up, is just really nice.'

Chapelfield Shopping Centre also launched its Tree Art Trail tree last night, designed by Scott Rozier, creative director of local marketing agency Four.

Sheridan Smith, marketing manager of Chapelfield, said: 'Chapelfield is working hard at being Santa's Little Helper this Christmas and we are offering more for shoppers than ever before. We hope that everyone will enjoy the Tree Art Trail as part of the festive season.'

- People can also pick up competition forms at any of the tree sites, the Tourist Information Centre at The Forum and Norwich Arts Centre.