HUNDREDS of children will light up city streets as part of a Christmas festival.

On Saturday, 100 children from three Durham schools will take part in a lantern procession through the city.

They will set off at 4pm, from Millburngate Shopping Centre, which has also provided the lanterns.

The parade then crosses Framwellgate Bridge, along Silver Street, past the Market Place to Saddler Street.

When it reaches the Cathedral, the children will be greeted by Santa Claus, who is flying from Lapland, before taking part in a carol service.

Andy Bradley, director at Millburngate shopping centre, said: "This is such a charming tradition, which dates back hundreds of years.

"All the children taking part are really excited and everyone is looking forward to seeing them carry their lit lanterns through the streets."

Schools taking part are Bluecoats, St Margaret's and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs RC.

The Lapland Santa will be available to meet children in Millburngate shopping centre on Saturday, from 10am until 3pm. He will also be collecting shoe boxes for the Operation Christmas Child appeal.

Durham is the first UK city to be linked with Rovaniemi in Lapland, considered to be the home of Father Christmas.