FAMILIES and students braved freezing temperatures to take part in a neighbourhood’s first Christmas community festival.

The event in Neville’s Cross, Durham, included a lantern parade, crafts and activities for children, a visit to see Father Christmas and dance and music performances by local groups.

It was organised by the area’s Neighbourhood Watch, with help from the Neville’s Cross Residents’ Association and Durham University’s Ustinov College, which recently opened in Sheraton Park.

Organiser Mandeep Smith said: “Despite the sub zero temperature, there was a fantastic turnout. The event has put the Neville’s Cross South Neighbourhood Watch group on the map. It worked really to unite our wonderful community. We are already planning next years festival, it’s been so much fun organising it all and hope to raise more funds for St Cuthbert’s hospice going forward.”

Entertainment was provided by Neville’s Cross Community Choir and a “glow mob” with dancers, wearing light-up costumes, from Carumba fitness.

It was organised to coincide with a Winter Wonderland event, with light displays created by pupils at Neville’s Cross Primary School.