Festival of Light cancelled in favour of fireworks

Sunderland's Festival of Light had proved popular with families but will not take place this year

A winter lights display has been scrapped so a council can run two New Year's Eve firework shows.

The Festival of Light has entertained families in Sunderland for years using lights, lasers and projections, but two years ago was switched to another location when it was moved out of Roker Park.

Now Sunderland City Council has said this year's light show will not go ahead so it can focus on a more "inclusive" New Year's Eve celebration.

Labour councillor Beth Jones said the decision was made following the success of the fireworks display held at the end of the Women's Rugby World Cup opening match in August.

"So many people told us how much they enjoyed the display and wanted to see more events like it," she said.

"That's why for the first time ever, we're planning a free, double fireworks display this New Year's Eve and we hope it will be just as popular.

"While the Festival of Light remains a cherished tradition, this year we're reshaping our winter programme to deliver something bigger, brighter and more inclusive for everyone to enjoy."

Jones had previously described the light festival as one of the city's "best-loved events".

A fireworks display was held in Sunderland following the opening game of the Women's Rugby World Cup

The first firework display will take place on 31 December at 18:30 GMT.

Live music, children's activities and a community parade will run from late afternoon until midnight, followed by the second fireworks display.

The council also said the city's Christmas lights switch-on will be held on 13 November.