Festive fun reigns in rain

THERE might have been a wet start to the first day of Newcastle Christmas Market on Saturday but there was no denying a thoroughly festive atmosphere when I turned up for its launch.

- By BARBARA HODGSON

As the decorated wooden chalet stalls began to open, music was playing inside the Moosenwirt popup bar and then the official ribbon-cutting ceremony included two very special performances.

To mark the start of this year’s market - expanded again and boasting new attractions - there was a performance by the renowned Easington Colliery Band which this year landed even more of the national spotlight when chosen by Sam Fender to appear on his People Watching album. This time the popular brass band played carols and Christmas tunes on the raised level around Grey’s Monument, which has been specially built for the ‘North Pole’ igloos.

And then came an equally feelgood performance by Newcastle Cathedral Choir with carol singing adding to the atmosphere.

Soon afterwards those igloos seated the first visitors who enjoyed the likes of hot chocolate, prosecco and elevated views across the market and down Grey Street. A little further down at Moosenwirt, an annual favourite, was more music - and welcome warmth - in its tipi where firepits were lit and council leader Coun Karen Kilgour performed the ribbon-cutting honours and gave a welcome speech.