Christmas arrives in Darlington as thousands gather to kick off festive season

Hits Radio presenters Steve Furnell and Karen Oxley compered the event as performers took to the stage to keep the crowd entertained in the hour-long build-up to the light show. Children of Darlington helped warm up the crowd with Farah, Dolly and Riley (who spelt his name out for a very cheeky Steve) taking part in a competition to see who could hold the longest note in Mariah Carey's iconic Christmas hit- All I Want for Christmas Is You. All three youngsters gave valiant efforts, but it was Riley who took home the gold, celebrating on stage with some superb dance moves and some very Gen Alpha-esque catchphrases! After some very questionable singing from Steve and Karen, Adele tribute act Stevie Harris came to save the day, belting out some classic Adele tunes that the crowd couldn't help but sing along to.

Princesses and superheroes were next to take the stage, with Deadpool making an appearance with his fresh new fame, leading the way in a group dance to NSYNC's Bye Bye Bye- there really was something for all ages. Then it was almost the moment Darlington was waiting for. The crowd fell silent and Santa and his ever-faithful reindeer made their way to the stage to press the big red button along with panto star Josh Benson.



A quick countdown from ten and Christmas began in Darlington. The crowd cheered as fireworks lit up the sky in a two-minute-long display and a chorus of All I Want for Christmas Is You was belted throughout the market square. (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) (Image: Sarah Caldecott) And as quickly as it started, it was all over and the crowds began to return home, to no doubt put the heating on and warm up after a cold, but festive evening.

Christmas is well and truly underway in Darlington..