FATHER Christmas will return with free treats for shoppers in two towns next week.

Santa Claus, invited by Derwentside Leisure Services, will take his elves and a sack of presents to Middle Street, Consett, on Monday, December 13, from 6pm to 7pm.

He will hand out free gifts to children, while grown-ups can enjoy free mince pies.

There will be music from the Salvation Army Band and stars from the district's first professional pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, which opens at the town's Empire Theatre next month, will be guests.

Health staff from the Why5? campaign will hand out free hot fruit punch and give away fruit stockings, as part of their drive to encourage people in Derwentside to eat five portions of fresh vegetables and fruit each day.

On Tuesday, December 14, the entourage moves to outside the Louisa Centre, Stanley, when Santa will be available at the same times.