TOWN gala organisers are urging residents to make this year's event one of the best yet as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Spennymoor Town Gala will celebrate its golden anniversary when it is held in the town's Jubilee Park on Saturday July 2.

It will be opened by Spennymoor Town Mayor Christine Kennedy and Sedgefield Borough Mayor Jackie Piggott at the fairground on Thursday June 30, 6pm.

But the main day of activities will be the Saturday when a procession of floats, bands and vintage vehicles parade through the town centre to Jubilee Park.

The park will host family entertainment and activities including Army and emergency service demonstrations, falconry displays, a battle re-enactment, stalls, music and Culine's Family Fun Fair.

Rugby league teams Durham Tigers and Scarborough Pirates will also face each other in a match, which kicks off at 4pm, in the park.

Main organiser John Culine, a town councillor and former mayor, said: "It is always a wonderful day and we've lots organised.

"Now we need the help of Spennymoor people to dress up in fancy dress, get the kids involved and march in the parade."

Town centre traders are also asked to enter a window display and groups or individuals can hold charity stands and stalls.

Money raised on the day will be donated to about 500 senior citizens to enjoy a free outing.

To hold a charity table, costing £7, a boot sale plot, priced £7 to £10, to enter a decorated float or to provide entertainment call (01388) 813856.