FRIENDS of Ropner Park host an annual Christmas Fair each December in Ropner Park in Stockton-on-Tees.

And the event last Sunday was as popular as ever.

The Old Glory jazz group entertained the crowd with renditions of Christmas songs and carols.

The Northern Echo: Father Christmas made an appearance to double-check who should be on the nice list. Picture: STUART BOULTONFather Christmas made an appearance to double-check who should be on the nice list. Picture: STUART BOULTON

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St Peter’s choir led the carol singing from midday.

Ropner Park also hosted a very special guest.

Father Christmas made an appearance to double-check who should be on the nice list this year.

The Northern Echo: St Peter's Choir led the carol singing. Picture: STUART BOULTONSt Peter's Choir led the carol singing. Picture: STUART BOULTON

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Stalls selling food, drinks and gifts got the crowds into the Christmas spirit.

The park’s café was also open selling turkey and stuffing buns.

In October 2002, Stockton Borough Council was bidding for funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to renovate Ropner Park, so a group of local people formed a “Friends” group.

The volunteer-led group is a charity organisation that aims to improve the use and enjoyment of the park for the local community.

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