Festive parade

The youngsters from schools in Bishop Auckland gathered with member of churches and the town's retailers for the procession, on Thursday night.

Many dressed up in the theme of Kings and Angels and joined families in the Market Place for carol singing.

Organisers and volunteers from The Butterwick Hospice at Bishop Auckland carried buckets to collect donations.

Beryl Anderson, from the hospice, said she was delighted with the turnout.

She said: "It is the biggest turnout we have ever had. It is the coming together of the communities, including schools, churches and retailers and most of all Butterwick supporters.''

Mrs Anderson said the charity also had record attendance at its craft fair in the Queen's Head, in the town.

Mrs Anderson said: "It goes to show what support we have and I would like to thank everybody for turning out.''