Hundreds of onlookers lined the streets to mark the return of the historic Houghton Feast festival this weekend.
The ancient festival is 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.
The festival returned on Friday and will run until Friday, October 14, with a packed programme of activities, events and entertainment.
Read more: Houghton Feast - Car parking, timings and where to get famous ox sarnies
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.
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.
Take a look at our picture gallery from Saturday below. All pictures by Sarah Caldecott.
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