DARLINGTON shoppers will be transported to a bygone world of spectacle and glamour this winter, with the arrival of a special seasonal attraction.

On December 1, the town centre will become home to a Spiegeltent – an elaborately decorated wooden marquee with a domed top - which will provide the setting for a packed programme of festive events and activities.

Lit by gaslight-style lanterns and dressed with mirrors and velvet, the Spiegeltent will be an opulent backdrop for everything from street food markets and shopping fairs to live music and crafts – right up to Christmas Eve.

For children, there will be the chance to meet Santa in his grotto and take part in Christmas-themed craft workshops, while a street food market on selected dates will offer the best locally sourced produce and ingredients.

Music will be provided by Cockerton brass band, Tyneside Steel band and a variety of acoustic artists throughout the month, with evening performances of theatre and dance also on the schedule.

A festive shopping village within the Spiegeltent will also provide the chance to snap up gifts.