AMATEUR performers were given their chance to shine in front of an audience of hundreds at this year's Orange Darlington Festival.

Children from as young as three took part in the event, held in St Cuthbert's churchyard on Saturday, which was hosted by Alpha 103.2.

Hundreds of spectators gathered to watch some of the town's best amateur performers take to the stage. Street theatre performers were also busy during the day, entertaining shoppers and visitors.

A spokesman from Orange said: "We are very proud to be involved with this event and to see so many people enjoying themselves."

An award ceremony took place at the end of the day. Prizes including Orange goodies and meals in Ochis restaurant were awarded to Thomas Evans, five, from Darlington, who sang the theme tune to Mulan accapello, James Garbutt, eight, from Darlington, who performed Queen's I Want to Break Free and Tanya Nixon, 16, from Melsonby, who performed Hero by Mariah Carey.

Dorothy Long, the council's cabinet member for leisure said: "It shows all the hard work has paid off when you look around and see how many people have turned out to such an enjoyable event."