CHRISTMAS Tree growers from Hereford have helped mark the start of the festive season on one of the most famous streets in the country.

Colin Griffith, from Dinmore Hill Trees in Wellington, was chosen to produce and deliver a tree that will spend Christmas outside the Prime Minister's home at 10 Downing Street in London.

Meanwhile, Brian Taylor, of Allensmore Nurseries near Hereford, won the prize to display a wreath outside the famous residence.

Both growers attended Downing Street for a special ceremony in which the Christmas Tree lights were switched on amid a backdrop of festive carols.

Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife, Samantha, were also in attendance.

Mr Griffith, who attended with his wife Davina, said: “It was a wonderful evening and the decorated tree looks fantastic.”

More than 100 growers took part in the national competition, with prizes awarded by John Howell, Conservative MP for Henley.

Harry Brightwell, secretary of the British Christmas Tree Growers’ Association, said: “We were delighted to be able to attend Downing Street for this special event and in particular, to be welcomed inside Number 10 for an informative and fascinating tour.”

But just days after the tree was uprooted and sent to London, the Bomb Squad was called to Dinmore Hill Christmas Trees after a "10 inch cartridge" was found.

The Ministry of Defence were due to examine the device which was found by two women.

"Two ladies came in and said they had found a cartridge but that it was not the sort you would find after pheasant shooting," said Mr Griffith.

"I went and had a look. The cartridge was about 10 inches long and was just outside our boundary."

Mr Griffith immediately called 999.

"Police arrived with their dogs and they sent pictures of it to the MOD," he said.

"The Bomb Squad has also been here and they've taken it away as it was getting too dark to examine."