THE final installations are in place ahead of a spectacular show to celebrate the grand reopening of Stockton High Street on Saturday.(March 21)

Stockton Borough Council has invested £20m in refurbishing the street in an effort to revive its fortunes and work has taken nearly two years.

On Saturday Spanish Theatre Company Carros de Foc will put on a show involving young dancers from Heritage Dance Studio, a huge flying eagle and a giant.

An enormous chair has already been placed on top of the plinth in Stockton town centre and youngsters have been dancing in the street. During the performance the eight metre eagle will fly across the town centre, while the young dancers entertain the crowds. The giant’s voice is being recorded by North-East born actor, Bill Fellows, who is most recently known for his roles in Wolfblood and Broadchurch.

Other events, including a dog show, live music, arts and crafts and storytelling will take place between 10am and 3pm. Car parking will be free in council-owned car parks.

Following the performance, leader of Stockton Council, Councillor Bob Cook and Mayor of Stockton, Cllr Barbara Inman, will officially open the new central garden to the public.

Cllr Cook, said: “The High Street has been redesigned in such a way that it can host large-scale, nationally acclaimed events which will continue to attract people to our town for many years, benefitting all the shops, businesses and eateries here for many years to come.”

Parking will be free in Wellington Square, the Castlegate Centre and in all Stockton Council owned car parks all day from 10am.

For the full programme and to find out more about the Stockton Town Centre celebration event visit www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk