The annual Haltwhistle late night shopping event is one of the top evenings in the town’s social calendar.

Hosted by the town’s Chamber of Trade with help from Haltwhistle Town Council, it acts as a key fundraiser for the town’s Christmas lights.

The shops stay open a few hours later than usual to create a cosy winter wonderland for Christmas shopping, featuring carols sung by local schoolchildren, the Christmas light switch-on and all-round good cheer – as well as a visit from Father Christmas himself.

The event is usually attended by hundreds of people but sadly coronavirus restrictions have put paid to this year’s event – however, local businessman Terry Christie pledged his support to ensure the town didn’t have to go without festive decorations this year.