Guisborough held its annual Christmas Festival and Parade on Tuesday - and it was bigger and better than usual.

The event saw the addition of illuminated figures that were unable to be used earlier at Redcar’s Christmas Parade, because of bad weather. Several hundred people took part in the parade, at least half of them children, many belonging to youth groups in the town.

(Image: BRIAN GLEESON)

Fortunately, the weather was dry but very cold.

The parade was led by Santa Claus in his sleigh (aka Town Councillor David Johnson) and reindeers along Westgate from Sunnyfield House, into Bow Street, returning via Fountain Street and Chaloner Street. All the streets were lined with spectators, particularly children who wished to wave at Santa Claus. Many of the children were festooned with illuminated wands, which were being sold on the street. Also on Westgate were Christmas stalls and children’s rides.

(Image: BRIAN GLEESON)

After the parade, the Christmas atmosphere was maintained with carols played by the Guisborough Citadel Salvation Army Band, and some musical and festive performances at the Market Cross, around the town Christmas tree.

(Image: BRIAN GLEESON)

Meanwhile, Santa was in his grotto in Sunnyfield House with a constant stream of children to see him. There was also considerable interest in the reindeer and llamas outside Sunnyfield House.

(Image: BRIAN GLEESON)

Aside from the parade, there was a Cleveland Fire Service engine for children to climb into, a circus skills workshop in the Caroline Grace Dance Studio, craft activities in the Masonic Hall, an owl display, and a Find the Reindeer game with clues in 23 shop windows in the town.

(Image: BRIAN GLEESON)

Westgate and surrounding streets were closed for the duration of the parade with bus services diverted to create a safe environment.

(Image: BRIAN GLEESON) (Image: BRIAN GLEESON)