A weekend of special events has started in Bishop Auckland for Christmas.
Crowds gathered on Friday evening in Bishop Auckland Market Place to see the Christmas lights switched on by Santa. The new Christmas Spectacular included a lantern parade by local schools and family attractions.
For the first time an evening market is being held in the market place, with a new Georgian market at Auckland Castle.
Listen: Bishop Auckland Mayor Colin Race talks to Paul Gittins
Listen: Local market traders take part in new event