A FORMER pit village will be turning back the clock to the Forties to get residents in the swing at a celebration tea dance.

The event, at Horden Welfare Park today, will mark the launch of Easington District Council's guide to Heritage Open Days.

The programme will include a series of tours and activities organised thanks to a £30,000 windfall from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The open days will run from next Thursday until Sunday, September 9, and will co-incide with the nation's celebration of history and culture co-ordinated by the Civic Trust and English Heritage.

During the four days, historic buildings across the district will be open their doors to provide a behind-the-scenes look into the past.

Among the highlights will be a second chance to step back to the Forties when the park hosts an afternoon of vintage cars, brass bands, fairground rides and other activities on Sunday, September 9.

Melanie Lowes, tourism officer for the council said: "This is the second year the council has taken part in Heritage Open Days.

"But this year, with the grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, we have been able to participate on a larger scale and offer more activities.

"There will be a wide range of tours, events and activities taking place across the district that we hope will bring local history and culture to life for residents.''

Heritage Open Day activities will include the chance to walk on the deck of Peterlee's famous Apollo Pavilion and view an exhibition of drawings showing how artwork could look in the future.

For more information ring the council on 0191-527-0501.