Organisers of a spectacular seasonal lights event in County Durham event have announced tonight's planned festivities have been cancelled due to heavy rain.

The AGLOW event, which has taken place at Auckland Castle, in Bishop Auckland, throughout December, will not go ahead on Saturday, December 30 as planned after organisers noted the weather conditions and the rain forecast for later in the day. 

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The Northern Echo:

In a statement, the organisers put on social media: "We are very sorry to announce that due to heavy rain forecast for this afternoon and this evening, and in the interests of the health and safety of our staff and visitors, AGLOW at Auckland Castle has been cancelled tonight.

"We appreciate that this is a disappointment and we will be giving those affected the chance to transfer tickets over to tomorrow evening or request a refund.

"All ticket holders will receive an email with instructions for your next steps."