ZEBRAS and crocodiles were seen parading along the main street in Darlington town centre at the weekend.

But shoppers were not too alarmed on Saturday afternoon, because the exotic creatures - accompanied by clowns and a circus ringmaster - were merely costumed entertainers publicising next weekend's Darlington Community Carnival.

The event will begin on Saturday, in Stanhope Park, and will continue on Sunday in the town's Market Square.

Giant puppets and colourful floats will make their way around the town on Saturday and there will be street theatre, live music and children's activities in the park. In the evening, the Arts Centre will host the Pete Gilgan Blues Band. Tickets cost £4.

On Sunday, there will be live music in the Market Square, and a town centre treasure hunt organised by the Dolphin Centre.