PREPARATIONS are almost complete for an annual community festival which celebrates its 50th anniversary.

The origins of Houghton Feast date back to the 12th Century, but the gathering was revived in 1967.

For its anniversary year, the 10-day community festival will open on October 6 with the “Houghton Feast 50: Journey through time laser show”.

Mayor of Sunderland Cllr Doris MacKnight switch on the Houghton Feast lights display at 7pm, which follows a Doctor Who-themed parade led by Houghton Area Youth Brass Band with lanterns and dancing puppets.

Also featured will be music from Hetton Lyons School Choir and young local musician Tom “Mouse” Smith, 13, who has performed with stars such as James Bay and Shed Seven and appeared at music festivals such as Glastonbury and T in the Park.

The Chair of the Coalfield Area Committee, Cllr Anne Lawson said: “We are proud to support the Houghton Feast, this fantastic annual event helps us celebrate all that is good about our community”.