A PACKED programme of activities is helping to keep youngsters occupied in a collection of former colliery communities over this week's half-term school holiday.

POW! (Play Opportunity Works!) is a fun-packed series of events and outings.

The project is designed for children aged five to 16 living in 12 former coalfield villages within the city council district.

It includes arts and crafts, sports and games and Halloween-related events, plus trips out to places of interest across the North-East.

Funding for the activities comes from a £60,000 Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) grant awarded from Better Play, a partnership between Barnardo's and the Children's Play Council, with an input from the National Lottery's New Opportunities Fund.

Local grants have also been added to help meet the cost of some of the excursions which will take youngsters to attractions around the region.

Young people involved in the activities, mostly based in village halls, community venues and sports centres, have also been encouraged to take part in Make a Difference Day projects, performing good deeds to improve their communities.

Glen Duckett, of the city council's SRB community team, said: "It is really important for young people to feel they are contributing to their community and can be part of improving their village.

"The POW! project is providing a unique service and catered for more than 200 children per week during the summer holidays."

Colleague Carl Marshall, who is the community play co-ordinator, said he hoped the range of activities would meet with a similar response during the half-term break.

More details about the half-term programme are available from Carl and Glen, on 0191-301 8531.