A CHILDREN’S Christmas lantern parade has been held in the North-East.

Youngsters got into the festive spirit by taking part in the annual event through the winding streets of Durham City.

It started in the historic Market Place on Saturday afternoon at 3.30pm, arriving at Durham Cathedral in time for the 4.10pm St Nicholas Service.

The procession formed part of the city’s 21st Traditional Christmas Festival and once again the streets, Market Place and Palace Green were brought to life with stall holders, entertainers and musicians spreading seasonal cheer.

The festival, which started on Friday and closes today (Sunday, December 7), included street performers, live reindeer, static falconry display and children’s arts and crafts and festive stories provided by Newcastle’s Seven Stories.

Colin Wilkes, from Durham Markets, joint organisers of the Christmas Festival with Durham University, said: “We always aim to grow and improve the festival in any way we can, year on year.

“We were so pleased to add the third day to the Local Producers’ Market. It meant that everyone, never mind which day they come to the Christmas Festival, can visit and browse all of different traders.

“It is a family-friendly event with something special for everyone. It is a fun filled three days in Durham which will get us all into the festive spirit.”