HUNDREDS of children took their teddy bears out into the sunshine at Bishop Auckland.

The teddy bears picnic, in the grounds of Auckland Castle, proved to be one of the best ever.

Circus skills workshops, kite making, magic shows, face painting and samba music kept children entertained between sports and games led by Wear Valley District Council's community physical activity programme.

In the nearby market place, three tons of sand created a temporary beach, where play workers Dezzy Cairns and Jane Gaunt helped youngsters make castles - and a giant seated teddy.

The event was part of a year-round programme trying to reach former MP Lord Foster's target of attracting 100,000 people a year into Bishop Auckland.

Town centre manager Derek Toon was pleased to see the crowds. He said: "It is a great way of getting people in and contributing to Lord Foster's objective, and the nice thing is that people really enjoy themselves, whatever their age."

Bishop Auckland councillor and businessman Sam Zair said: "This is a happy event which has become part of the town's culture. It shows that something simple like a bit of sand can spark children's imagination."

A motor show will be held in the market place next Friday, from 10am to 4pm.