THE first snow of the festive season fell in Darlington town centre yesterday, promoting squeals of delight from children.

However, the snowfall was restricted to one small part of Skinnergate as fake snow brought the spirt of the season to life.

The snowflakes marked the start of the late-night shopping season in the town.

The snow 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. There was also roasted chestnuts and mulled wine on offer for the adults.

Traders in Skinnergate and Post House Wynd entered into the spirit with a best-dressed angel window display competition - which was won by Coopers Coffee House in Post House Wynd.

Alpha 103.2fm hosted an Angelic Christmas roadshow, where little angels from local schools took part in a carol for Darlington competition.

Eight schools from the town sang and the competition was won by Cockerton Primary School, which received £1,000.

Reid Street Primary School and Haughton Community School were runners-up, scooping £250.

The money will be used to boost the musical curriculum.