CHRISTMAS gets a maritime launch in the region this weekend - with a lantern boat parade.

The event, the first of its kind, will take place in Hartlepool Marina tomorrow.

It starts at 7pm, when a parade of marina boats, each aglow with festive lights, will sail around Jackson Dock led by Santa and his elves on a sleigh boat.

At the same time, many of the Navigation Point restaurants and bars will switch on their Christmas lights, adding to the blaze of colour.

To add to the festivities, Navigation Point will be buzzing with entertainment, including songs by Hartlepool Community Choir, performances by the Walking Tall stiltwalkers, tunes from Highland bagpiper Derek Millmoor, a parade of local children carrying boat-shaped lanterns and marches by Hartlepool Sea Cadets.

There will also be roast chestnuts for sale, and many of the Navigation Point restaurants and bars will be setting up outside tables to sell mulled wine, mince pies and other tasty festive food and drink.

The fun concludes at 9pm with a five-minute firework display over the marina.

The event has been organised by Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Marina.

Lesley Strickland, of the council's arts, museums and events service, said: "With the lights of the boats reflected on the water and lovely sounds and smells drifting through the crisp evening air, Navigation Point will be full of Christmas spirit."

Allan Henderson, Hartlepool Marina director, said: "Everyone has teamed up to make this one of the merriest and most unusual starts to Christmas the town has ever seen - and the fun and entertainment is absolutely free."

For more information, call Hartlepool Tourist Information Centre on (01429) 869706.