An illuminating event

Thousands of visitors enjoyed the spectacular return of the Festival of Light and Sunderland Illuminations, which has now closed for another year.

Families from across the region flocked to attend the sell-out Festival of Light displays in Roker Park, alongside the Sunderland Illuminations at the seafront and attractions on Cliffe Park.

New lighting features and attractions such as the Fire and Water display in Roker Park and old favourites like the observation wheel at Cliffe Park attracted visitors from across the region over the month long event, which took place from Thursday 14 October to Saturday 13 November.

Sunderland City Council Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, Councillor Linda Williams, said: "It has been fantastic to see the much-loved Sunderland Illuminations and Festival of Light back for 2021, and great to see how many people have been able to enjoy all the activities on our beautiful coast.

"It's great to see our events successfully continue to bring people into our city to enjoy themselves. We're always delighted to welcome back our regular visitors and greet even more new ones to experience all that Sunderland has to offer.

"We're very much looking forward to moving on to our Christmas programme now, and welcoming more people into the city."