CROWDS turned out in force for some seasonal solace as Durham’s Christmas Festival came back with a bang at the weekend.

Following the Covid-enforced cancellation of last year’s event, the annual festival returned to the city centre streets, which were thronging throughout the weekend.

The three-day festival attracted both local people and visitors alike to the city and was also enjoyed by Durham’s large student population, some of whom gave musical performances at different venues.

It included students taking part in a Carol-a-thon to raise funds for worthy causes, plus performances by several other college ensembles and groups.

There were more than 200 independent traders represented, three markets with plenty of festive fare and seasonal entertainment on offer.

Despite the general lifting of restrictions this year, festival-goers were asked to wear face coverings at the indoor venues featured including Durham Market Hall, the Craft and Gift Marquee, on Palace Green, Durham, plus the cathedral’s cloisters, as well as in other shops around the city.

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