A SCIENCE and technology park is hosting an event offering North-East families and business people an insight into a futurist world.

Science Live, a four-day event at NetPark, near Sedgefield, County Durham, is designed to make science fun for people of all ages.

Visitors to the event, which ends tomorrow, will learn about developments taking place at NetPark and its research institute - home to the University of Durham's astronomical and digital projects.

Guided tours of the research institute start at 10am, noon, 2pm and 4pm today and tomorrow.

A Formula 1 racing car, the world's first dual fuel production car - the Toyota Prius, and an experimental solar-powered car are on show in the park's custom-built futuristic dome.

There is also a gyroscope wheel, Sparky the robot, and a display of winning robot designs created by schoolchildren.

The event is also designed to help promote NetPark as a new focal point for the growth of science and technology industries in the North-East and the role these businesses could play in securing economic prosperity for the region.

Representatives from Durham County Council and County Durham Development Company will be available to answer questions about the park and its plans.