NATIONAL Trust properties in the North-East are switched on to Christmas this year, with a series of festive events.

Festive lights were illuminated at Souter Lighthouse, Marsden, near South Shields, this week, to signal the start of a busy pre-Christmas season at the region's trust properties.

Gibside Chapel, near Rowlands Gill, hosts a special Anglican service, on Sunday, at 3pm.

There is also a chance for children to meet Santa in a grotto on the Gibside estate, also on Sunday, between 11am and 4pm.

Whitebeard, a nautical Pirate Santa, will be meeting children at Souter Lighthouse, on Saturday and Sunday December 20 and 21, from 11am to 3pm, with other festive activities, cost £2.50 per child.

The trust is also staging a series of Winter Wonderland walks offering the chance to explore the coast and countryside. Winter Birds on the Northumberland Coast, on Sunday, begins at Low Newton car park at 10.30am.

Hogmanay Hike on the Leas is a seven-mile circular walk starting at Souter Lighthouse, at 10am. The charge is £4 for adults and £2 for children.

In the new year, Gibside estate stages guided winter walks, on Sundays, January 13 and 20, February 10, 17 and 24, all starting at 2pm.

Further details about all activities are available on 0870-458 4000. Further information is available on the website wwww.nationaltrust.org.uk