SHOP owners in Darlington are preparing for some of their busiest weekends of the year, in the run-up to Christmas.
The festive events start on November 9, when a Christmas spectacular will take place in the Market Square featuring an ice skating rink, street entertainment and the official switching on of the Christmas lights, sponsored by Orange.
On November 10, there will be a Christmas parade with Father Christmas on his sleigh pulled by huskies.
Shops in Darlington will open on Sundays from 11am to 5pm, starting on November 4, with late-night shopping on Thursdays, from 9am to 8pm, starting on November 29.
Late-night opening will continue during Christmas week.
Albion Small, chairman of Darlington Chamber of Trade, said: "The next couple of weeks are the best time to shop, because all the shops are well stocked ready for Christmas, whereas in the week before Christmas you are more limited.
"The big weekend, though, is the 9th and 10th, when the lights are switched on and Santa arrives. It will be a great weekend.
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