MORE than 200 youngsters helped to raise money for a summer play scheme.

Children of all ages tried their hand at climbing on the Rock-It mobile climbing wall at Branksome School in Darlington.

Sarah Kasagic, development worker for the Cockerton and Branksome area, said the fun day had been organised by the local community partnership to raise money to set up a summer play scheme.

As well as the climbing wall, there was also a bouncy castle and face painting.

Ms Kasagic said: "It's the first time we have had a play scheme here. The youth club closes in the summer as well, so it's really important to provide something for the kids to get involved in.

"We need to raise funds for the play scheme to provide activities for youngsters during the school holidays.

"The fun day really brought the community together and we have had some parents volunteering to help out during the summer."

She said the climbing wall may be brought in as part of the summer play scheme, as well as a number of other activities, which could include archery, a survival skills session, canoeing, caving, walking.