CHRISTMAS came to Darlington this weekend with Santa Claus in the thick of the action.

Santa took part in the traditional reindeer parade through Darlington town centre, on Saturday.

The jolly one and his helpers were pulled round in his sleigh by a Cairngorm reindeer, from the Scottish highlands.

After the parade, the reindeer paused outside the Cornmill Centre for curious children to have a closer look, while Santa was in his grotto.

Then yesterday, Cinderella played her part in the proceedings, by switching on the town centre Christmas lights.

The big switch-on was performed by Cinders, with a little help from Postman Pat, from a stage in Darlington Market Place.

Alpha Radio's breakfast crew Dave Lee and Rebecca Turton were live on air, counting down to the switching on ceremony.

This year's Christmas tree, which stands more than 30ft high, is enclosed by decorative railings.

They feature little Christmas trees, holly leaves and a star of Bethlehem.