As many gathered to watch the Coronation of King Charles III on screens across the North East and take in the revelry of the occasion, residents across Stockton showed out with costumes, bunting, and flags to mark the celebration.

There was a party atmosphere as those in Stockton town centre and Wellington Square took part in the festivities.

Children could be seen playing, waving flags, and enjoying the merry-go-round and big wheel while out and about.

Many were happy to pose for the camera as the coronation of the new King approached, watching the screen opposite the closed Castlegate Shopping Centre.

The Northern Echo: Having fun in Stockton: John Hutchinson, 42, Cherry Hutchinson, 13, Robyn Hutchinson, eight, Noah Fawcett, sevenHaving fun in Stockton: John Hutchinson, 42, Cherry Hutchinson, 13, Robyn Hutchinson, eight, Noah Fawcett, seven (Image: MICHAEL ROBINSON)

The Northern Echo: Laiba Rashid, aged 12, in StocktonLaiba Rashid, aged 12, in Stockton (Image: MICHAEL ROBINSON)

Various renditions of popular songs were played by an accompanying band, while entertainers engaged with the crowd.

Meanwhile, many adorned themselves with union jack hats and shirts, while others chose less conventional garb such as pumpkin and elephant costumes.

Food and market vendors took in the atmosphere and those watching on from the grass next to the fountain.

One of the vendors, Shawn Swenney, from Thornaby, owner of Shawn’s flowers and plants, said the town had been bustling with a great atmosphere.

The Northern Echo: Shawn Sweeney, Stockton market vendor at the coronation celebrationsShawn Sweeney, Stockton market vendor at the coronation celebrations (Image: MICHAEL ROBINSON)

He said: “It’s really busy down in the town, there’s a great atmosphere, there seems to be a lot of people having fun.

“Business is probably a little bit quieter than normal, but everyone’s getting involved in all the fun and that. It’s what I expected.

Read more:

Live: Celebrations continue in Darlington and County Durham

Durham and Darlington homes covered in union jacks for Coronation

Get more from The Northern Echo with a Premium Plus digital subscription from as little as only £1.50 a week.

“I’ve really enjoyed it, there’s been a lot to do.

“It’s been really bustling, there’s plenty of people about the fountain all having fun and that, so it’s really good.

He encouraged people to enjoy the occasion and cut loose over the weekend.