LAST-minute changes to the Orange Darlington Festival Lantern Parade have been confirmed.

Rupert the Bear will make a special guest appearance at tonight's parade, which will end up in the Market Square.

In a change to the previously notified schedule, Rupert will give the signal for the fireworks to start at the new time of 7pm, and not 7.35pm as originally planned.

The Orange Darlington Festival Lantern Parade is sponsored by Orange, presented by Darlington Borough Council and supported by Taylor Woodrow.