CHRISTMAS cheer seemed to return to one County Durham town tonight as a row over a popular festive event was officially resolved.

Campaigners in Newton Aycliffe had fought against proposed changes to the long-running Santa Tours which had been threatened after concerns they were illegal and Great Aycliffe Town Council's insurance would be void if there was an accident.

However, a victory for people power was later declared when Durham Constabulary's chief constable, Mike Barton, confirmed the council would not face prosecution over the event if Santa travelled at walking pace on the back of the sleigh.

A Facebook campaign to "save" the popular Christmas Eve event was set up by resident Russ Gibson and attracted more than 5,000 followers.

The father-of-three officially apologised to councillors at the latest meeting of the council's events sub-committee meeting tonight, saying his page was not meant to be a place for animosity.

He said: "I am the person who set up the Santa page and I want to offer an apology from myself for any distress or any anger that's come across that page.

"That's not what I intended - the intention was to get the public's opinion not cause an argument so if there's been any animosity, I apologise and I have been trying to administer the comments as much as I can."

Mr Gibson was applauded for his apology and thanked from the council for raising the profile of the event.

Councillors heard how the page had actually helped boost the number of volunteers needed for the event while several businesses had donated vehicles and materials.

Fellow resident Ian Bussey also called on the council to make sure a Mrs Claus was included in the event in the interests of equality.

He was told there was only room for three people on each tour, including Santa, but one of the support crew could dress up as Mrs Claus if they wished.

A report recommended the council approve officer's actions to increase the number of vehicles carrying Santa from eight to 12 while also stating the event would continue as a tour without confirmed stops.

An additional expenditure - although not specified - was also recommended. All the recommendations were approved.