A VILLAGE'S Christmas illuminations, which last year were switched on by Prince Charles, are to be lit up on Saturday.

But the only royalty present at Middleton-in-Teesdale for the switch-on, at 4pm, will be the village's carnival queen, Kirsty Hutchinson, who will carry out the task.

Music will be played throughout the afternoon and children from Middleton Junior and Infant School will entertain with carols.

Members of the youth drop-in centre will distribute mulled wine and mince pies.

Local shops will be open and there will be stalls from Teesdale Farmers' Market.

Father Christmas will be arriving on a quad bike to deliver presents to the children.

The lights are funded entirely by local donations and John Cronin, a member of the volunteer team who helps put them up, thanked the community for their support.