THE annual Christmas Eve tour of Newton Aycliffe by Father Christmas has been saved by two local companies.

A shortage of vehicles meant Santa's visit to every street in the town was in danger of being cancelled.

But after an appeal in The Northern Echo, Holiways garage, in Newton Aycliffe, and Darlington light haulage firm Ark Express have agreed to lend Great Aycliffe Town Council vehicles.

With four vans already secured from Noble Self Drive, in Darlington, the council will be able to use a new vehicle it has purchased, plus the two donated this week, to ensure that all seven routes in the town can be covered by Father Christmas and his followers.

Marie Robinson, of Great Aycliffe Town Council, said: "We are very grateful to Holiways and Ark Express for their help, which means that the tour will be able to reach every street on Christmas Eve."

This year, for the first time, a collection will be made for the mayor's charity, The Nurses' Trust.

The council is still seeking a volunteer to work as a navigator for the event.

Anyone interested can contact Marie Robinson on (01325) 300700.