Nine retro photos from South Shields Christmas lights switch-on events from years past

South Shields' Christmas lights were switched on at the end of November bringing the first glimpses of festivity to the town.

But to get you even more into the Christmas spirit we’ve got these glowing reminders of crowds at the ceremonies in 2003, 2004, 2018, 2019 and 2021.

Take a look and see if you can spot someone you know.