HUNDREDS of people braved the rain and wind in Durham last night to usher in the Christmas season.

A crowd gathered in the Market Place to see the switch-on of the city's new Christmas lights, paid for by the city council and traders.

TV star Norman Pace, who is appearing in A Slice of Saturday Night at the Gala Theatre, led the countdown to the switch-on by Mayor Eileen Rochford.

The new lights, which replace a years-old set, give the impression of twinkling stars.

The city's seasonal ice rink, outside the Gala, in Millennium Place, also opened with a display of skating from professionals employed by operators Aria Ice.

The rink will be open most days from 9.45am to 8pm, until January 5.

The operators hope to attract 17,000 skaters during the season, including schools and office parties.

Managing director Vince Eckerman said: "The tickets have sold phenomenally well. We have sold 3,000 to 4,000 already.''

City centre manager Chris Rawlinson said: "It is really going to be very different in Durham this Christmas.

"Our new lights will ensure that when people are shopping in our historic streets, it will feel as though they are walking underneath the stars.

"The skating rink in Millennium Place is also a first for Durham and will provide a festive atmosphere as well as entertainment.''

For further details about the rink, call (01642) 659999.

Sessions cost £5 (£4 concessions).