Residents hit out at changes of Newton Aycliffe Santa Tours

Hundreds of residents in Newton Aycliffe have hit out at proposed changes to the town’s much-loved Christmas Eve 'Santa Tours' tradition, cherished by families in the town for six decades.

The proposed changes would see Santa swap his traditional street‑to‑street journey for five fixed routes with designated stopping points at each.

Great Aycliffe Town Council says the shake-up is needed because of the town’s growth and increasing issues with parked cars blocking access.

But the news – which appeared in the media before councillors had agreed a final position – has sparked anger among volunteers and families who fear the magic could be lost.

(L) Volunteer Santa Stuart Mawson, 56, at the council meeting in 2018 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

Volunteer Santa Stuart Mawson, 56, who works