Coca-Cola Christmas Truck arrives at Gateshead’s Metrocentre

It's fair to say that Christmas has officially arrived on Tyneside as the Coca Cola truck sets up shop at Gateshead's Metrocentre today.

The iconic vehicle, well known for its pride of place in the annual Coca Cola Christmas advert, is on a tour of the country.

Today, Friday, November 26 is the turn of the North East.

The Coca Cola truck is in Gateshead for one day only and members of the public are invited down for a free can of pop, a selfie with the truck and a few festive games along the way.

The vehicle is in the Metrocentre's red car park and will be there until 8 pm on Friday night.

After that, it makes its way South to Leeds.

Newcastle World stopped by the event on Friday morning to catch the festivities in full swing.

Being Black Friday, the Metrocentre was heaving as shoppers looked to make the most of cut-price deals.

Outside the centre people braved the biting cold to pose in front of the Coca Cola truck and take the perfect Christmas photograph.

Keith from Bishop Auckland said: "Today was all about the Coca-Cola truck, the magic never disappears.

"We've been to see it before. The magic starts with the advert and all the lights and music... the free pop!

"I'm a massive fan of Christmas and, ever since I was a kid, this always kick started it.

"You're missing out if you don't come down."

Carol and Andrew from Berwick-upon-Tweed said: "I've really enjoyed it, it was my first time as I can drive now!

"It's iconic, Christmas all in one. You know when Christmas is coming when you see that advert.

"The queues are moving quite fast as well so I would recommend it."

Amanda and Michael from Cramlington: "I like the little quizzes you can do!

"You've got to get letters to make a word for the end.

"We've seen it before, in Sunderland and when it was at Asda.

"It's something different to do, so we'd recommend it. It's good for the little ones."