TINSEL halos and cardboard crowns will add to a town's festive celebrations at a Christmas procession.

The Butterwick Hospice in Bishop Auckland is inviting members of the community to enter into the spirit of things by dressing up as kings and angels at a candle-lit procession next Thursday.

The Royal British Legion Pipes and Drums will take the lead followed by Santa on a Saracen Tank with the general theme for the event being War and Peace.

A carol service at 6.40pm in the market place, with music by Ferryhill Brass Band, will bring the parade to a conclusion.

A Christmas Craft fair will be held from 2pm throughout the day at the Queens Head Hotel, with a traditional market in the outside from 8am to 3pm followed by a farmers' market from 5.30pm to 8pm.

Candleholders for the parade are available for £1 from the hospice.

For more information about the event contact (01388) 603003