Winter Festival starts with a bang!

A free fireworks display will light up the skies over North Tyneside on November 4, marking the start of the borough’s Winter Festival.

The annual festival, coordinated by North Tyneside Council, attracts thousands of people to the borough.

And with events taking place across North Tyneside, it’s sure to be another fun-packed festive season.

It will get underway this year at a fireworks display on The Links, Whitley Bay.

Fairground rides and hot food available will be from 6pm, with the show starting from 7pm.

A range of popular events will follow over the coming months, running right up until January 20.

Highlights include Santa’s grotto at Wallsend Parks, Christmas tree decorating at Benton Quarry Park and the annual Victorian Market in North Shields.

Ahead of the start of the festival, North Tyneside Elected Mayor, Norma Redfearn CBE, said: “I know how popular the Winter Festival is with residents and visitors, which is why I am delighted it is back again this year.

“The programme is full of events and activities for the whole family to enjoy and the fireworks display is the perfect way to get the festivities underway.

“The events provide a boost to the local economy – supporting our commitment to making North Tyneside a great and prosperous place to live, work and visit.”

The North Tyneside Fireworks Display is organised by North Tyneside Council and is supported by Whitley Bay Rotary Club.

The full Winter Festival programme is available online at www.visitnorthtyneside.com and from libraries and Tourist Information Centres soon.