South Tyneside's alternative 'COVID Christmas' celebrations revealed

Events such as the The Camel Parade in South Shields will not go ahead this year.

The council is planning a unique festive season this year with several events being held virtually to adhere to covid-19 restrictions.

Events to celebrate the festive period include a virtual Christmas Carol concert, a live streaming storytelling session by South Tyneside Libraries and films will be streamed on the Council’s YouTube.

Local residents are also invited to join the Mayor and Mayoress of South Tyneside and the Customs House panto characters on a unique online adventure with a Virtual Christmas Lights Switch On.

Children can still enjoy the festive period with the virtual events.

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Cllr Norman Dick, said: “Christmas is a wonderful time of year when families and friends celebrate and have fun. Although this one will undoubtedly be a different experience, we are still determined to make it magical and memorable.

“The ongoing pandemic has given us the chance to create something unique this year as we look at alternative ways to bring the magic and excitement of Christmas to South Tyneside."

Morrisons is selling a hot Christmas dinner to go for £5.50 - how to order

During December, The Word will be encouraging families to get involved in a wide range of activities at home as part of its digital Christmas Advent Countdown.

Cllr Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “This year has certainly been very challenging for everyone.

“As 2020 draws to a close, we are even more determined to celebrate Christmas and bring joy to South Tyneside families over the festive season.

"Public safety must be our absolute priority so we have adapted our Christmas highlights where we can so that we can still give families a wonderful festive experience, working within the restrictions to keep people safe.”

Here are the full list of Christmas events:

- Virtual Christmas Lights Switch On is being held on Saturday, November 21 at 7pm.

- Virtual Christmas Carol Concert is being held on Monday, December 14 at 7pm.

- Films will be streamed on the Council’s You Tube channel throughout the festive period.

- South Tyneside libraries will be live streaming storytelling for younger children over social media every Thursday in the run up to Christmas.

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.