CROWDS of excited youngsters turned up to give Santa Claus a warm Christmas welcome to Durham.

He arrived at his grotto in the city's Prince Bishops shopping centre on Saturday, on a sled pulled by huskies.

He was greeted by hundreds of eager little faces, some of whom had queued with their parents since 8.30am.

Pittington Primary School Marching Band played Santa Claus is Coming to Town and other festive favourites.

Stilt walkers captivated onlookers, and Durham Amateur Operatic Society's cast of Cinderella, in full costume, posed for photographs.

Gillian Dawson, of Bearpark, near Durham, brought eight-year-old son Gavin to sit on Santa's knee.

"He's excited, he's going to ask for a PlayStation and some games and a scooter," she said.

Connor Davies, three, of Gilesgate, had a motorbike top of his wish list.

Richard Toynbee, technical services manager of the Prince Bishops centre, said: "We had a grotto for a couple of days last year, but we have taken it a step further this year.

"Hopefully, people will bring their kids down to see Santa. It's another reason to come to Durham."

Durham Mayor, Councillor George Wharton, opened the grotto.

Durham's Christmas festival, with dancing, singing, and street entertainers, will take place from Friday to Sunday.