Preparations are in full swing for a popular festival fair opening in just a couple of days.

The Houghton Feast is an ancient festival held every October in Houghton le-Spring, near Durham and Sunderland.

It dates back to the 12th century when it originated as Michaelmas, the dedication service to the parish church of St Michael and All Angels.

And it returns this Friday, October 7 and will run through the following Friday, October 14, with a packed programme of activities, events and entertainment.

The theme of this year’s festival is ‘A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’ and it will launch on Friday with a spectacular community show on The Broadway celebrating her decades of service.

The Northern Echo: Houghton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah CaldecottHoughton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah Caldecott (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The celebration will see Houghton Pipe Band, Zazz dancers, Houghton Area Youth Brass Band, and The Houghton Feast Children's Choir entertain the crowds.

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At the conclusion of the outdoor show, the Houghton Feast illuminations will be switched on by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alison Smith.

Other feast highlights include a Firework Spectacular on Monday October 10 at 7.30pm.

Fireworks will be launched from the Durham Road playing fields but can be viewed from the surrounding areas including Dairy Lane.

Other headline events throughout the ten-day event include the Carnival Parade and the much loved Roast Ox sandwiches on Saturday, October 8.

Full details of all the events and attractions can be found on this website.

The Northern Echo: Houghton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Picture: Sarah CaldecottHoughton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Picture: Sarah Caldecott (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The Northern Echo: Houghton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Picture: Sarah CaldecottHoughton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Picture: Sarah Caldecott (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The Northern Echo: Billy Hill, Frankie Smith and Phillip Cooper who have rides at Houghton Feast Picture: Sarah CaldecottBilly Hill, Frankie Smith and Phillip Cooper who have rides at Houghton Feast Picture: Sarah Caldecott (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The Northern Echo: Houghton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah CaldecottHoughton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah Caldecott (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The Northern Echo: Houghton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah CaldecottHoughton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah Caldecott (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The Northern Echo: Houghton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah CaldecottHoughton Feast returns on Friday October 7 Pictures: Sarah Caldecott (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

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