DURHAM City centre became a blaze of colour last night when the Christmas lights were switched on.
The ceremony, in the Market Place, was performed by Mayor George Wharton and was preceded by pupils from St Godric's Primary School and Framwellgate School singing carols.
Yesterday also saw the start of the city's fourth Christmas Festival, which is expected to attract thousands of gift hunters.
City centre shops will be open today and tomorrow and there will be an extra market and gift stalls, music and entertainment, and a craft exhibition.
Entertainers, including stilt walkers, dancers, singers, musicians and bands will be performing at points throughout the city.
Park and ride bus services will operate today, starting at 9am, from County Hall and Durham City FC, at New Ferens Park, Belmont.
The service will run tomorrow, from County Hall only.
l Traffic will be banned from Market Place, Saddler Street, North Bailey and Palace Green (except pass holders) from 10am to 4pm today and 12.30pm to 4pm tomorrow.
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