CHILDREN will be given flags so their parents can keep track of them in a five-acre maize maze opening to the public today.

The spaceship-shaped maze at Witton Gilbert, near Durham City, is believed to be the first of its kind in County Durham.

It has been designed by Adrian Fisher and will be open for six weeks over the summer holidays.

Farmers Mark and Jane Gray, of Broom House Farm, are delighted to have the maze on their land.

Mr Gray said: "Some maize mazes grow to 10ft and more, but you can't see anything. We thought it would be more interesting and enjoyable if people could see over it and see where their children are."

Youngsters using the maze will be given flags to wave as they go through the attraction so their parents can watch their progress.