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It's the lights fantastic at the big switch-ons
Families enjoyed festive cheer at the Christmas lights switch-on in Seaham and Peterlee town centres.
Former X Factor contestant Laura White wowed a 900-strong crowd at Peterlee's Castle Dene Shopping Centre.
And hundreds also gathered to see Seaham Town Council's Christmas tree switch-on, in Church Street.
Laura – performing in front of an impressive Christmas tree that put last year's "twig" to shame – told the Peterlee crowd: "It's absolutely amazing to be with you all, my fellow northerners."
Laura sang her new single, before turning on the Christmas lights, which coincided with fireworks being launched.
Centre chiefs say they have spent 40,000 on decorations this year.
Laura told crowds she wanted Danyl Johnson to win this year's X Factor, but added that she thought South Shields lad Joe McElderry may just win.
Other entertainment on the evening included support from new girl group Bubbel G, stilt walkers and kids' favourite Fifi from Fifi and the Flowertots.
In Seaham, Santa Claus joined the crowd at the big switch-on.
Seaham band played carols, accompanied by singers from Seaview and New Seaham Primary Schools.
Mike Preston, parks and recreation manager for Seaham Town Council, said: "We had a great turn-out. There were hundreds of people here. Unfortunately, the lights on one of the trees did not switch on as three fuses failed to work.
"We are very disappointed about this and we are bringing a specialist electrician from Durham County Council to remedy the problem."
The council says it has had a great deal of support this year with Hays Travel sponsoring one of the trees and Byron Place putting up its own tree outside the shopping centre.
Children were given early Christmas presents and Byron Place also put on a free ride for youngsters.
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Weather for Sunderland
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: -3 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Heavy sleet
Temperature: 1 C to 4 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: South west
