THE first snow of the season fell in Darlington town centre last Thursday.
However, the snowfall was restricted to one small area of Skinnergate - and it was not cold because it was fake.
Nevertheless, the snowflakes marked the official start of the late-night shopping season.
The snowfall was part of a Festival of Angels which was organised by the town centre management to get shoppers in a Christmas spirit.
Louise Toms, town centre manager, said: "The evening was a great success. The snow was great without being freezing."
Children were entertained with Angel-themed face painting, stilt walking and model-making and there were roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.
Traders in Skinnergate and Post House Wynd organised a best-dressed Angel window competition - which was won by Coopers Coffee House in Post House Wynd.
Eight primary schools took part in a carol competition.
The winner was Cockerton Primary, which received £1,000.
Reid Street Primary School and Haughton Community School were runners-up, winning £250.
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