HUNDREDS of children have created artwork for a Father's Day event this weekend, which will also raise money for charity.

Primary school pupils across County Durham have transformed ordinary Smartie sweet tubes into rockets, palm trees, animals and a host of other models for the exhibition.

The display will be at the heart of a packed day at the Timothy Hackworth Railway Museum, in Shildon, tomorrow, to support The Butterwick Hospice, in Bishop Auckland.

Keith Taylor, headteacher at Escomb Primary School, which contributed to the display, said: "The pupils have thoroughly enjoyed the art project and used their imagination to create some great models.

"The school was especially happy to take part in an event that will benefit a charity for locals."

Fathers, or any train lovers, can enjoy a ride on the museum's newest attraction - a Ruston Hornsby Diesel Locomotive 88DS.

But the event is not just a treat for fathers. Attractions for the family include stalls and fairground rides and an inflatable slide, all of which will be open from 10am.

Alan Pearce, museum manager, said: "I'm sure it will be a great day out for all the family, but an especially good event because money raised from stalls and activities will support The Butterwick Hospice at the same time."

For details telephone (01388) 777999.