A TRADITION which dates back to the 12th Century was celebrated at the weekend.
Houghton-le-Spring's annual feast dates from the medieval years when the poor and hungry were given food by the town's Rector, Bernard Gilpin, who earned the title The Apostle of the North.
Yesterday, there was the traditional ox roasting, a festival church service, a production of Wizard of Oz, fireworks and communal hymn singing.
The feast started on Friday with the switch-on of the illuminations by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Juliana Heron.
Saturday's entertainment featured a pipe band championships and display, the annual carnival parade, art exhibition, a fun run, caged bird display and an open day in the parish church.
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