YOUNGSTERS dressed as kings and angels delighted crowds by singing Christmas carols at a town's annual lights ceremony.

Children from schools and other organisations in Shildon took part in the town's Christmas procession last week, which ended in the market place with carol singing.

Father Christmas led the way to the square where town Mayor Coun Garry Huntington switched on the Christmas tree lights. The event was followed by family entertainment and a craft fair in the nearby Civic Centre.

Coun Huntington said: "I think we have had a fantastic turn out.

"This just goes to show that the people of Shildon support the efforts that have been put into doing something special for them at Christmas.

"We had an excellent turn out at last year's event and it has been even better this year.

"The town council would just like to wish everyone in the town all the very best for Christmas and the New Year."