THE launch of a fire and ice spectacle has been a bit hitter with the crowds.

Organiser Durham Business Improvement District (BID) yesterday unveiled 15 installations at Fire and Ice In Durham, forming an ice sculpture trail around the city centre, lit by a number of flaming beacons illuminating the works of art.

This year’s winter festival, billed as Travelling Through Time, continues on Saturday with sculptures positioned around the city, from 10am to 6.15pm.

Alongside the signature pieces is a replica of the northern aspect of Durham Cathedral, a working Steam Punk Timepiece and a Viking longship as well, as returning favourites such as the chocolate block and have-a-go wall.

Adam Deathe, business engagement manager at Durham BID, said: “The firsr day of Fire and Ice Travelling through Time has been a huge success.

"The forecast was pretty dire at the start of the week so we were watching it with some concern because we did not want it to be a washout.

"But the rain failed to materialise and the city has been throngung with people today. A lot of businesses say they have been exceptionally busy.

"Stephenson's Rocket in Prince Bishops is the tallest sculpture that we have ever had and then over at the Riverwalk we have had the DeLorean from Back to the Future, which is the largest sculpture we have ever had. "

The full programme of events and trail map is available to download at www.durhambid.co.uk/fireandice with more information on their Facebook page.