ACTOR David Griffin was keeping up appearances at Darlington College at Catterick on Saturday as he launched a charity balloon race.

He took time off from appearing in It Runs in the Family, which finished its run at Darlington Civic Theatre on Saturday night, to perform the honours at the college's annual open day.

The star of the hit BBC comedy series Keeping Up Appearances was told by staff how they had received a reply slip back earlier this year from the Ukraine - 19 months after a previous balloon race.

Proceeds from the race will go to the Army Benevolent Fund. It was one of a host of attractions at event.

While children enjoyed a bouncy castle, face-painting and got to sample Russian food and tea, their parents were shown around the college site and given details of the courses on offer.

They were also treated to demonstrations in health and beauty, including Indian head massage, and an art and design exhibition.

Children from Wavell School, Catterick Garrison, also put on football, hockey and relay demonstrations to a crowd of more than 450 people.

Head of centre Louise Laurence-Crockford said: "We have had a lot of people come and see us today and many have enrolled on courses.

"The open day has become a popular social event in the area, but this year visitors have also focused on the educational aspect of the centre. The day has proved very successful."