YOUNGSTERS have been enjoying space-themed activities during their summer holidays this week.

Children from West Auckland have been taking part in crafts, activities and games at Oakley Cross Primary School's sports hall since Tuesday.

The sessions were organised by West Auckland Community Church and supervised by Methodist youth and children's worker Julia Gaines.

She works in Manchester, but volunteered to help during a visit to her parents who live in the area.

The two-hour events for five to 11-year-olds are based around planets and stars.

The final activities take place today.

Ms Gaines said: "It provides activities for the children where they can have fun in a safe place."

A service, featuring children who have taken part, will take place at West Auckland Memorial Hall on Sunday, between 10am and 12pm.

Hazel Charlton, from the church, said that the sessions had become popular through word of mouth.

She said it would hopefully become an annual event.