HUNDREDS of people gathered together on Teesside to celebrate a festival inspired by Diwali.

The Festival of Light and Colour is a free event organised by Stockton Council in association with the Hindu Cultural Society, Middlesbrough.

Held at the rear quadrangle on Durham University Queen’s Campus, families and community groups took part in the event which is inspired by Diwali, the Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness.

The story of Diwali was brought to life through sound, light and colour along with Dhol drumming and fire displays by Stockton Circus Group.

Visitors enjoyed an extravaganza of dance, music and performances from the Hindu Cultural Society reflecting the imagery of Diwali and Indian Culture.

And people were also able to try a variety of South Asian food cooked by Matty’s Bistro, a group which employs young people who are out of work or education.