FATHER Christmas arrived at Teesside International Airport yesterday to help with the Giving Tree Appeal.
Asda stores in Darlington and Spennymoor organised Santa's journey to the airport to support the appeal and to promote its official launch, which takes place tomorrow night, at the Mardi Gras nightclub in Darlington.
Tickets for the launch party, which starts at 8pm,cost £2.50, including a free prize draw entry. They are available from The Northern Echo's offices in Priestgate, Darlington, or at the door.
Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards the appeal, which has been organised by Darlington social services.
The appeal aims to provide gifts for families in the town who cannot afford them.
People are being encouraged to buy an extra gift to donate to the appeal.
These can be dropped off at collection points including The Northern Echo offices in Priestgate, Asda stores in Darlington and Spennymoor, or the Alpha Radio 103.2 offices in Woodland Road, Darlington.
The gifts will be distributed by Father Christmas, helped by social services.
Bob Sewell, Asda events co-ordinator, said: "The appeal helps a lot of people who could not otherwise enjoy Christmas to have a nice time, and it is Santa's job to encourage everyone to give generously."
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