A NATIONAL celebration of music saw a host of bands entertain crowds in Darlington today (July 13).

Our Big Gig is an annual event that aims to bring communities across England and Scotland together to celebrate musical talent.

Darlington’s event took place in South Park and featured free performances from a number of local and regional musicians.

The four-hour gig saw acts including the South Regional Wind Band, the Darlington Youth Choir and the Darlington Little Big Band take to the bandstand.

Visitors were encouraged to bring along picnics and chairs to enjoy an afternoon of live music in the setting of Darlington’s oldest park.

Scores of similar events took place simultaneously across the country.