PREPARATIONS are under way for a town's Christmas parade.

Crowds are expected to attend the event in Bishop Auckland on Thursday, December 1, which is organised by The Butterwick Hospice.

Primary schools and a host of other children's groups will take to the streets dressed as angels and kings, following Father Christmas in his gingerbread house.

They will travel down Newgate Street and into the market place, for a carol service and the official switching-on of the town's lights.

The groups are expected to gather at the top of New- gate Street outside the Bishopgate Medical Centre, shortly before the procession begins at 6pm.

One of the highlights of the evening will be a performance by the Arabian Drummer Stilt Walkers.

A Christmas craft fete will be set up in the Newgate Centre and will be open until 8pm, along with the centre's shops.

There will also be a fun fair in the market place.

A spokesman for The Butterwick Hospice said: "The Bishop Auckland Christmas Parade is one of the highlights of our fundraising calendar.

"Residents usually turn out in force to support us and we are looking forward to seeing as many people as possible there on the night.''

Anyone who wishes to take part in the procession or have a craft stall, can contact the Butterwick Hospice on (01388) 603003 for a registration form.