RADIO presenter Alfie Joey will lead a lantern lit children's parade during Durham Christmas Festival.

The BBC Newcastle presenter, who co-hosts the radio station’s breakfast show with Anna Foster, and Lord Lieutenant of County Durham Sue Snowden will lead Durham Mini Police, children and families in the annual parade from Durham Market Place to Durham Cathedral for the St Nicholas Service on the afternoon of Saturday, December 1.

Chester-le-Street Salvation Army Band will play carols at the beginning and end of the procession, and the finale of the afternoon's event will be a fire-juggling performance on Palace Green when people leave the service.

Colin Wilkes, managing director of Durham Markets which organises Durham Christmas Festival together with Durham University, said: “It’s always a wonderful family event, and quite enchanting to see Durham’s streets lit by the children’s lanterns. Alfie’s popular with everyone, and helps to make it a really special occasion.”

Alfie Joey said: “Durham Christmas Festival is fantastic event, when locals and visitors make the most of everything the city has to offer. Once you hear the carols it feels like Christmas is here. I thoroughly enjoy being part of the Children’s Lantern Procession. As the sun sets the lanterns make the city look magical, and the kids love being the ones lighting the way.”

Lanterns can be reserved for £5 at durhamchristmasfestival.com