CHRISTMAS festivities got under way in Durham City at the weekend with a range of activities and stalls.

One of the main attractions was the Eurocrafts designer/maker exhibition in the town hall offering a range of gifts, as well as Belgian chocolates.

Christmas markets were also held in the Market Place and on Framwellgate Bridge.

In addition, Saturday saw musicians provide street entertainment, with Saltburn Victorians strolling around handing out events programmes. There were Christmas gifts and crafts marquee, horse and carriage rides on Palace Green, as well as display of period bicycles from Beamish Museum.

Live Nativity animals were also on show in the Market Place and Santa visited Prince Bishops and Milburngate shopping centres.