A COMMUNITY celebration will start on Friday with up to 100 puppets taking part in a grand parade.

The Houghton Feast, one of the oldest traditions in the North-East, will start with the parade at 7pm, followed by a light spectacular at 7.15pm at Houghton Kepier School.

Staged by Alan Hillary Events, the ceremony will include architectural and theatrical lighting and special effects, set against the backdrop of St Michaels and All Angels church.

Historian and broadcaster John Grundy will narrate and the puppet characters will help to tell the story. Illuminations will light up the night sky providing a visually stunning display.

The opening ceremony marks the start of 10 days of activity, fun and festivities for the family.

On Saturday, there will be a festival day with street entertainment. The highlight of the show - the roasting of the ox - starts at 4pm on Monday, October 11, on the Rectory Field, followed by a fireworks spectacular on Durham Road Playing Fields at 7.30pm.

The Houghton Feast is thought to date back to the early 12th century. For further information, call 0191-553 6300 or 514 1235.