FESTIVE fun flourished across Durham's medieval centre as the city's fourth Christmas Festival drew massive crowds.

Gift-hunters flocked to the city for a taste of a traditional Victorian Christmas.

The bright weekend weather added to the occasion, as the streets thronged with shoppers.

City centre manager Barry Turnbull declared it a success.

He said: "It's been extremely successful. We couldn't have asked for more.

"There have been huge numbers coming to Durham, including party bookings from down south, and we even had some overseas visitors.

"We had 200 extra parking spaces in the city centre, which have been full throughout, and the park-and-ride scheme we put in operation from County Hall car park and New Ferens Park proved very popular. The hotels were full up and the traders appear to have enjoyed excellent takings.

"All the events we laid on seem to have gone down well, particularly the performers."

More than 30 groups of singers and musicians, including more than 100 performers, maintained the festive feel through the three days of the event.

It began on Friday with the switching on of the Christmas tree lights and city centre decorations by the Mayor of Durham, Councillor George Wharton.

Stilt-walkers, street theatre performers, many in traditional Victorian costumes, and of course, Santa Claus himself, in his specially-built grotto in the Prince Bishop Shopping Centre, provided popular attractions throughout the weekend.